Today’s Podiatrist is an expert in sports medicine. Podiatrists keep America active by keeping athletes of every age and ability on their feet and in the game.

The foot and ankle are very susceptible to sports injuries, from blisters to repetitive motion injuries to sprains and fractures. Podiatrists treat all those injuries, but more importantly, they can help you prevent them. To protect your feet and ankles, podiatrists advise choosing the right footwear for your activity and consulting a professional to be sure your footwear fits properly. Don't underestimate the proper socks, either! Lacing techniques, orthotics, and braces can help protect your feet and ankles, as well. 

If you do sustain a sports injury in your foot or ankle, check in with your podiatrist right away! Many podiatry offices offer emergency appointments for injuries. It's important to have your injury properly diagnosed. While rest, ice, compression, and elevation (or RICE) may be enough to treat a minor sprain, for example, some sprains are much more serious and may require immobilization or event surgical repair. See a podiatrist to get the right diagnosis and treatment plan designed to fit your needs and lifestyle.  

A Word about the Littlest Athletes

Take special care of your young athlete's foot and ankle needs. Be sure their footwear fits properly each season, and pay attention if their behavior changes. Kids can't always communicate an injury, and they may act more tired than usual or be hesitant to participate in their regular activities when they are in pain. Active kids can also develop conditions such as Sever's disease, a painful condition of the heel that results from growth spurts in the bone that outstrip the growth of the surrounding soft tissue.

Foot Pain is Never Normal

The bottom line? Never ignore a sports injury! Foot and ankle pain are not normal, even after a big game or a long run. And ignoring an injury can leave you susceptible to future injuries. If you're in doubt, have your podiatrist check it out! 

For Patients

• An Overview
  What is a podiatrist?
• Becoming a Doctor of Podiatric Medicine
  Learn more about the exciting careers available in podiatric medicine and step into podiatry.
• Read
  Learn more about foot and ankle injuries and how to prevent them.
  • Achilles Injuries
  • Ankle Sprains
  • Ankle Stretches
  • Fractures
  • Heel Pain
  • Tendinitis
• Watch
  Your podiatrist offers information on stretching, lacing, footwear, and more to help keep you in the game. 
• Join the Conversation
  Follow us on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram to hear more about topics related to foot health year-round.

For more information about podiatry and sports medicine, click on the image below to visit the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine website:

For APMA Members, State Components, and Affiliated Organizations

Individual members and practices can make use of the following resources to promote their expertise and educate current and prospective patients. These downloadable resources include social media posts, a press release, a feature story, social media graphics and logos, a tip sheet, referral letter, and a special edition of Footprints.

Note: Members in New York should contact NYSPMA Executive Director Dan Kline for materials customized to your needs.

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