Board tricks, repeated foot impact can lead to serious injury
Naples, FL — Children and young adults love the thrill of skateboarding. They learn to master their skills of “riding the rail” and “catching air.” But according to Dr. Kevin Lam, D.P.M., FACFAS, DABLES, DABPS, such tricks, while fun, can be physically demanding and cause serious foot and ankle injuries.
Dr. Lam warns he continues to see serious lower-extremity skateboard injuries among his patients. These injuries range from minor bruises to open wounds or cuts to more serious foot and ankle sprains and fractures, which may require surgical repair.
Florida foot and ankle surgeon, Dr. Kevin Lam, D.P.M., FACFAS, DABLES, DABPS, advises skateboarders to use caution and wear protective gear, including properly supportive shoes, when skateboarding. “Skateboarding can be particularly hard on your feet and ankles because of the impact caused when performing jumps and tricks,” Dr. Lam explains. “Skateboarders should be aware that the strain from repetitive, forceful motions can also cause painful foot and heel conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bone spurs and Achilles tendonitis, which may require more intensive, longer-term therapies,” he said.
Even minor cuts or abrasions on your feet can cause serious problems. Wounds not cleaned and covered properly on feet and ankles can lead to serious staph infections and may require extensive antibiotic therapy and surgery to heal.
Foot and ankle sprains and fractures are common skateboarding injuries. Dr. Lam also stresses the importance of seeing a foot and ankle surgeon to ensure proper diagnosis and course of treatment for these injuries. Until you can be seen by a doctor, it is best to take a break from activities and use R.I.C.E. therapy (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation), which helps to reduce pain and control swelling around the injury.
“A common misconception about foot and ankle fractures is that if you
can walk on the foot, there isn’t a fracture,” Dr. Lam said. “That’s not always the case, and only a proper diagnosis can rule out a serious injury requiring an advanced treatment plan.”
For information on foot and ankle injuries contact Dr. Lam at (239) 430-3668 NaplesPodiatrist.com or visit the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons’ Web site, FootHealthFacts.org.
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Serving Southwest Florida Since 2005, Family Foot & Leg Center has 9 convenient locations throughout Collier, Lee, Charlotte, and Sarasota Counties. Offering pediatric to geriatric family care: Ingrown Toenails, Heel Pain, Bunions, Foot / Ankle Arthritis Pain, Plantar Fasciitis, Foot / Ankle Surgery, Custom Orthotics, and Diabetic Wound Care. In office X-rays, ultrasounds, and minor surgical suite exam rooms. Practice powered by EMR and advanced technologies. Home of the Lam Minimal Invasive No-Scar Bunion Surgery! Come Discover Why Patients Love Our 5-Star Foot & Ankle Care! Same Day Appointments! Easy Online Appointment Scheduling!
