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SOCCER INJURIES

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SOCCER INJURIES

Developmental/Youth

Calcaneal Apophysitis (Sever’s)
In young children aged 8-14 years old, commonly boys, the heel bone goes through a growth
phase which can include significant inflammation to its growth plate. When a child is more
active, particularly if wearing hard shoes such as football boots this condition may be further
aggravated because of the firmness of the heel counter on a boot.

Osgood Schlatter’s Disease
A childhood overuse injury also commonly coinciding with growth phases/growth spurts that causes a painful lump below the kneecap due to the pull of the quadriceps muscle at its insertion. This knee injury is common in sports like soccer.

Acute

Ankle Sprains
Soccer players are one of the most common athletes to experience ankle sprains (medial or
lateral) due to the multiple direction changes required in their play, including jumping and
landing (often in an uneven manner or in physical contact with other players), planting, pivoting, turning and stepping. The simple technique of kicking the ball involves external rotation of the foot (abduction) and lateral loading (inverting) of the foot. Any inversion of the foot places the foot at risk of an inverted/lateral ankle sprain ie “common ankle roll”. The lateral ankle sprain is the second most common Soccer injury. This can damage ligaments on the outside of the ankle and sideline a player for many weeks. Contrastingly any pivoting, contest or aspects of the game like jumping can result in a less common excessive eversion causing an everted ankle sprain (medial ankle sprain).
Contusions and bone bruises often result from high impact contact with other players such as in slide tackling, or having the toe box of your boot stepped on resulting in a very sore toe! It is helpful to be aware of the difference in pain levels between a contusion or bony bruise as opposed to a structural or soft tissue injury. In an acute impact, usually if an injury is more significant it is noticed straight away and is of a higher severity than the ache caused by a bruise that develops much later hours to days after an impact that is less painful in its initial incident.

Stress Fracture
Also seen as an overuse injury for athletes frequently training under high activity loads, common stress fractures for soccer player (ie partial breaks to bones) occur at the second and fifth metatarsals, tibia (medial malleolus), and fibula (lateral malleolus).

Overuse 

Calf strain, pull or tear

In soccer there is great susceptibility to muscle strains particularly to the calf due to the often
explosive changes in direction, high running load and rapid acceleration and deceleration involved in the sport, as well as towards the end of a game (fatiguing conditions) placing a great load on the calf muscle. The calf muscle, aka Triceps Surae is made up of the two headed Gastocnemius (upper calf portion) Soleus (lower/mid calf portion) and Plantaris muscle. Soleus strains are often  lateral.

Gastrocnemius strains are often medial. The Gastrocnemius medial head is most prone to a tear.
Calf strains are graded 1-3, with a grade 3 tear the most painful resulting in inability to contract the calf and a much longer recovery time. This injury can best be prevented by an assessment of calf strength, function, ankle joint mobility and other examinations by your Podiatrist to determine if preventative treatment is necessary.

Achilles Tendonitis/Tendinopathy

Soccer requires a lot of plyometric force through the back of the calf, from the power required
for short bursts and sprint work, to jumping for a header. Sometimes, if you are in a very flat
soled boot with minimal heel height; all the motion above can place a strain on your achilles.
Over time, if training loads are not carefully managed, the Achilles tendon can experience wear
and tear and can become inflamed either at its mid portion or at its end where it inserts to the
bone. In the instance of an acute injury to the Achilles, this tendon can rupture if an incident of
high plyometric load is instigated in an unstable position. This injury often occurs with a “pop”
sound.

Knee Meniscus injury or tear
Repeated lateral or forceful movement involving the knee joint can place the knee at a high risk
of damage or tear to the meniscus, a spongy triangle shaped wedge of cartilage that acts as
your knee’s natural shock absorber. Although commonly an injury that occurs as a result of
degeneration from overuse (ie many years of soccer), an acute meniscus tear can occur as a
result of excessive twisting of the knee whilst in a flexed position (ie tackling or changing
direction).

Turf Toe
A strain of the ligaments surrounding the big toe can be caused by the frequent tackling, planting and stopping of the foot, toe-first into ground.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS)/(Shin Splints)
Pain is felt in the lower ⅓ of the inside of the shin (ie not the front of the shin lower to the knee-this is a different issue). MTSS is a common injury related to running or plyometric activity overload ie overtraining, or a rapid change to training type or intensity. Many factors are involved in the cause of this condition, which you should discuss with your Podiatrist if you are concerned you have MTSS.

Subungual Haematoma (Ie bruise under toenail) 
If soccer boots are too small or a player is repeatedly jamming the top of the toes (commonly
big toe) into the end or top of their boot during contest, the nail bed underneath a toenail can
bleed due to the excessive pressure and cause pain.

Blisters
Poorly fitted soccer boots or playing on a wet field in winter can cause blisters to the feet. See
your Podiatrist at Total Care for blister prevention tips and the best type of socks to wear on
field!

One key aspect of any Soccer player’s training to protect the foot and lower limb from injury
should place focus on balance and proprioceptive work to ensure the best possible strength for
single leg weight-bearing.

Other tips include:
 Warming up thoroughly before training or play

 Ensure to always wear protective shin pads, try a thicker sock, and make sure boots are
comfortable and fit well

 Do a pre play field check for anything like uneven ground, debris, stones or puddles!

 Allow sufficient time off field and off training when you have had an injury, avoiding
rushing back into your original training load as this can enhance re-injury risk.

Feel free to book into the clinic with one of our Podiatrists for an injury risk assessment. If you
have had an injury in your sport, come and see us for your rehabilitation program so you can get back to the field as soon as possible!

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, please call us today for an appointment on 5223 1531

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

FIVE SIGNS YOUR CHILD MAY HAVE A FOOT PROBLEM

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Five Signs your Child may have a Foot Problem

 

In-toeing or tripping

Usually, sometimes thought of as the internal rotation of the foot but formally known as Metatarsus Adductus, Metatarsus Adductus is usually picked from birth at the very latest into the first year of growth but if left undetected may be a cause of in-toeing along with other things like an Internal Genicular (Knee) Position, Internal Tibial Torsion or Femoral torsion from the hip. It is best to get these things checked from the age of birth to the age of 6 to ensure nothing that needs to be treated is left untreated. 

 

Limping, pain, or withdrawing from or lagging behind in activities

If your child complains of foot or lower leg pain that lasts longer than an initial trip or fall or a few days, you should get your child assessed. 

 

Growing pains

For some children, growing pains may be more abnormal and associated with a Hypermobility joint syndrome which is best understood early to prevent excessive strain, pain or injury as well as some abnormal foot structures that can be associated with more profound growing pains. 

 

Your child is lagging in developmental milestones or has awkward gait

Although these may be not associated directly with foot problems, children require a stable foundation from the feet to allow basic motor skills as early as birth to first steps. If your child has some abnormality in their foot structure or alignment as discussed above, some of these motor skill milestones may be delayed; if not due to other red flags such as potential neuromuscular conditions. It is great to see your Paediatric nurse or Podiatrist if you have concerns.  

 

Tip toe walking

It is normal in the first few years of growth for a child to walk on their tip toes as they become accustomed to the confidence of walking. However, beyond the age of 3 if this continues it can suggest the potential for tightness and pain through the calf muscles if not treated, issues with growth phases, or also the potential for a developmental or intellectual condition diagnosis.  

Think your child has a foot problem? See our friendly Podiatrists for our monthly free Paediatric foot check and screening held on a Wednesday each month. Contact our helpful Reception team for details, you can also get a referral from your Paediatric nurse. PH: 52231531

 

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

IT’S IN THE WAY YOU WALK…Check out our latest blog for more information

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FEEL THE BALANCE

A persons gait simply refers to the way they stand, walk or run. An abnormal gait can be caused by one or more parts of the body (such as the hips or knees) under-performing, which can lead to imbalances elsewhere in the body. A podiatrist will analyse the way you walk to help identify any imbalances or areas of weakness.

THE DOMINO EFFECT

Did you know that a podiatrist doesn’t just study the feet during gait analysis? Let’s say you are suffering from hip pain, this could be related to the way you walk. Or your feet might turn inwards or outwards, and the compensation your muscles have to make to keep you upright can actually be the cause of your pain. Your podiatrist can explain how all these elements relate to each other and back to YOU!

THE WEAKEST LINK

The way you walk can reveal which parts of your body are perhaps weaker than others. Did you know that compensations in the body can lead to imbalance around the joints and the main muscles – such as hamstrings, glutes, quads and calves? These observations can all tie in with hip, knee, foot and ankle pains. This means those areas may become less active and end up contributing less than should. A gait analysis can reveal these kinds of issues and more.

 

If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, please call us today for an appointment on 5223 1531

*Source foothealthaustralia.org.au

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

SHIN SPLINTS AFFECTING YOUR RUN OR HIIT?

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Shin Splints or MTSS or Medial tibial stress syndrome

Common in runners or those participating in running based sports

Symptoms:

  • Diffuse pain along the distal third of the tibia
  • Must be distinguished from focused pain which suggests a fracture or pain in the muscle compartments

Causes:

  • Large loads on the tibia causing strain on the surrounding soft tissues
  • Current evidence indicates that there may be bending of the tibia involved

Treatment

  • Activity modification
  • THOR Laser to address areas of inflammation and/or muscle trigger points
  • Orthotics which will provide offloading and reduce strain on the tibia
  • Footwear recommendations
  • Muscle stretches and/or strengthening

THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.

OUR FREE FAMILY FOOT CLINIC RETURNS ~ 2nd of July 2020

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Free family foot clinic!

THURSDAY 2nd of July 2020

15 minute FREE consultation 

Please arrive on time to help our family clinic run on time

Gold coin donation to ‘Kids plus foundation’ is welcomed

Call our friendly reception staff today to secure your appointment PH: 5223 1531

 

EXPERIENCING PAIN IN YOUR ANKLES, KNEES OR HIPS? 

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EXPERIENCING PAIN IN YOUR ANKLES, KNEES OR HIPS?

At Total Care Podiatry the podiatrist will ascertain what dysfunction is occurring in your feet, how this is interacting with the muscles in your back, pelvis and legs and will see what areas in your lifestyle may be placing you at risk of continuing the injury. We will also work together with other health professionals involved in your care to achieve a long term solution.

Your knees and hips are the largest joints in your body. They are responsible for supporting your weight as you stand and walk. If you are experiencing chronic pain in your hips, knees, or even in your lower back, shoulders and neck, there may be a connection between this pain and the way your feet function.

Walking is good for you, right? Absolutely. But beware of poor walking habits that can cause or exacerbate knee and hip problems. On the positive side, however, a safe and smart walking regime can help improve joint problems, not to mention how good it is for your overall health.

KNEE PAIN

Watch your feet. If you are prone to foot problems, such as hypermobile feet (when the joints in and around the feet move more than they should) or  fallen arches caused by over pronation, your gait may be compromised. And this change can cause unnecessary stress on the knees, resulting in painful injuries.

The knee is made to bend only in one direction—facing straight forward.  When the foot over-pronates, the leg rotates inward toward the opposite leg. This causes the knee to flex and extend while pointing inward and not in the normal direction, which puts stress on the knee.

People who suffer from osteoarthritis pain have worn cartilage on the inside (medial) area of their knee joint. Research is being done to determine how walking differently can help manage this pain. According to the Arthritis Foundation, studies are finding that pointing your toes slightly outwards (about 7°) when you walk will shift pressure to the outside (lateral) part of the knee, relieving the pain radiating from the inside of your knee joint.

RUNNER’S KNEE (which is not exclusive to runners!) is identified by a throbbing pain on your kneecap. The impact of your foot hitting the ground causes your kneecap to rub against the femur bone. If you have a misaligned kneecap or previous injury, your knees are more vulnerable. Other causes are weak thigh muscles, soft knee cartilage, or flat feet.

HIP PAIN

Pain from bursitis is felt on the outside of your hip, whereas arthritis is felt on the inner hip near your groin. Relief from each requires different walking treatments.

Repetitive stress (including excess walking or running) can cause the bursa that cushions your hip to become inflamed. Another cause of bursitis is exercising without proper warm-ups and cool downs, which are a vital part of any program. You need to follow a very slow walking regime when recovering from a bout of bursitis. This involves gradually increasing the frequency and length of your walks.

As with osteoarthritis in general, the cause of hip arthritis can be genetic. It can be a hereditary or a congenital problem with an improperly formed hip joint. Hip arthritis can also develop from an injury or trauma to the hip area, or stress from excess weight or activity.

The problems caused by over pronation, which were discussed for knee pain, are also true for the hip joint. When the foot pronates, the leg rotates inward and the hip can become unaligned. This condition puts stress on the hip and on the entire leg muscles.

HOW TO HELP YOUR ANKLES, KNEES AND HIPS

Any problem with the foot or ankle resulting in a compromised posture or gait can lead to knee and hip pain. Examples of common foot problems that can lead to poor posture and irregular walking patterns include:

  • Plantar fasciitis, which can lead to chronic heel pain and/or arch pain
  • Nerve pain or numbness in the foot (such as neuromas and tarsal tunnel syndrome)
  • Bunions and bunionettes (big-toe versus little-toe side, respectively)
  • Excessive foot  pronation (rolling in) or  supination (rolling out)

When you experience pain and you are diagnosed with a dysfunction in the foot or ankle, it may be possible to reduce the knee and hip pain by improving foot function, using proper footwear and orthotic insoles.

A Harvard medical school health publication advises that exercise is an important treatment for arthritis. It improves the strength and function of the afflicted area(s).

In many cases, a moderate walking plan is recommended to alleviate such pain. It is considered a low impact activity that strengthens the supporting muscles, relieving the pressure on the joint. Be sure to walk on a smooth, soft surface such as a track or treadmill. Your doctor or physical therapist can advise how much walking is best for you. An extra bonus is walking will help with weight loss, which takes some stress off your joints.

When you compensate for pain by limping or walking with an abnormal gait, other joints can suffer wear and tear. Your rheumatologist, orthopedic doctor or physical therapist can help determine if changing your walking gait could help reduce pain. Many PTs will video patients as they walk on a treadmill and then review their walking habits to determine what pain reduction improvements can be made. You can make a conscience effort to minimize limping by holding your body straight without swaying and maintaining and even stride.

THE RIGHT SHOE REGIME

Healthy shoes play a significant role in knee and hip pain management. Here are a few tips on the importance of wearing good shoes.

  • Never wear heels over two inches high. Heels increase the risk of knee joint degeneration.
  • However, not all flat shoes are good for your feet. Flats that do not provide any arch support can lead to knee, hip, and back pain.
  • Get the right fit. Tight shoes can cause limping from foot pain. Oversized shoes can also impair your gait. Either way, you’ll be putting unnecessary stress on your knees and hips.
  • Stability sneakers provide cushioning and help control over pronation. They also relieve the ball of the foot, which helps arthritic pain in the hip, knee, foot or ankle.
  • Replace your shoes as needed. When the supporting cushioning becomes worn, it is no longer helpful.
  • If knee or hip pain is due to your foot function, the proper footwear along with orthotic insoles can be a very effective way to relieve symptoms.
  • Invest in quality shoes that are specifically made for your condition. Total Care Podiatry provides the ability to browse shoe selections that meet your needs.

At Total Care Podiatry the podiatrist will ascertain what dysfunction is occurring in your feet, how this is interacting with the muscles in your back, pelvis and legs and will see what areas in your lifestyle may be placing you at risk of continuing the injury. We will also work together with other health professionals involved in your care to achieve a long term solution.

WARNING
THIS INFORMATION IS FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY AND IS NOT INTENDED TO REPLACE PROFESSIONAL PODIATRIC ADVICE. TREATMENT WILL VARY BETWEEN INDIVIDUALS DEPENDING UPON YOUR DIAGNOSIS AND PRESENTING COMPLAINT. AN ACCURATE DIAGNOSIS CAN ONLY BE MADE FOLLOWING PERSONAL CONSULTATION WITH A PODIATRIST.