Figure Skating and Ankle Sprains

If you have been watching the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, there have been plenty of heart-stopping moments for the competing athletes. From skiing to snowboarding or curling, all eyes have been on the snow and ice. Another sport is popular, too: figure skating. American figure skater Nathan Chen continues to lead on the ice while setting world records.

It’s hard not to want to hold your breath while watching figure skaters on the ice. There is the fear of slipping and falling. There are also technical details that must be perfected to bring home the gold. What about injuries? While these athletes hope for the best, they also face common foot and ankle injuries. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, figure skaters face overuse and traumatic injuries.

The Desert Podiatric Medical Specialists aren’t quite sure if they’ve treated an Olympic athlete in training, but they’ve certainly treated patients for an all-too-common injury: an ankle sprain. 

As you can imagine, these athletes practice for hours. They are often repeating moves on and off the ice, too. The frequency can put a lot of strain on their muscles and joints. Here are common ways to prevent ankle sprains for figure skaters. Interestingly, similar principles apply to you, too.

1. Just like you, the fit of the shoe matters. The same goes for figure skaters. The way the skate fits can help to reduce an injury.

2. Guess what? Olympic athletes must warm up, too. Experts recommend that these athletes warm up for about 15 minutes. 

3. Pushing through the pain is a no-no for top athletes, too. If you have pain, stop. You may have an injury, or your body is alerting you to rest. 

Here is how we can help:

1. Regardless of your athletic skills, sprains are more common than you think. One wrong move with your ankle can create an injury. Call us for proper treatment.

2. If you have questions about the fit of your shoes, we’re your experts. Allow us to help you find the best shoes.

3. If you frequently experience ankle sprains, you may need more support. Ask us about braces.

With locations in Tucson, Oro Valley, and Green Valley areas of Pima County, Arizona, we have vast experience treating issues of the ankles and feet. Our team includes Dr. Christopher M. Funk, Dr. Bradley A. Whitaker, Dr. Peter C. Merrill, and Dr. Zeno Pfau. Our doctors offer the greatest in technologically advanced methods and cutting-edge medical treatments. Please call 520-575-0800 and make an appointment.