For over one hundred and fifty years, Americans have been devoted to the game of baseball as both fans and participants. With the arrival of each spring, thousands of people across the country search for their gloves and cleats in preparation for the upcoming baseball and softball season. Spring also brings an influx of patients to the local emergency rooms and doctor's offices because of the injuries associated with our national pastime. Before you ever step up to the plate, take the time to ensure that you are actually ready to run the bases.
Coming off the bench (or couch)
Baseball and softball seem pretty safe compared to other "contact" sports. But far too often, a lack of preparation and self awareness is what leads to a sports injury.
As with any physical activity, make sure that you are fit to play long before the first game. A person over 40, smokers, diabetics or anyone who has a physical disability should see a physician before starting any type of vigorous exercise. Those who have existing foot problems should see a podiatrist who can offer you a gait analysis and advise you on the inherent risks associated with your activity.
Before you take the field, did you inspect the field? Always do a walk through of the playing surface before you dive head first after that shallow line drive. Rocks, broken glass and countless other potential hazards could be waiting for you in the grass. Are the bases secured? Are there any dips or holes in the infield or outfield? These things should be taken into consideration at all times.
Shoe essentials
The right equipment is essential to the enhanced performance and safety in any sport. Baseball and softball players rely on the traction of cleats to get them around the diamond.
Special consideration should be given to children under the age of 10 before fitting them with cleats. While bigger kids and adults produce a lot of energy and torque while churning the bases, smaller children might not need the extra grip that cleats provide. Regular sneakers may provide adequate traction while reducing the risk of ankle injuries sometimes caused by a biting cleat. If a child wants cleats, be sure that they wear them around in the yard a good deal before they play their first game so they can get used to the feel of them.
Cleats should be fitted with the help of an experienced footwear technician using the same socks that will be worn on game day. When wearing new cleats for the first time, pay close attention for signs of irritation like redness, swelling, blisters or discomfort anywhere within the foot and ankle area. If any of these symptoms become apparent, discontinue use for two or three days. If there are reoccurring issues, see a podiatrist to diagnose the problem.
Injuries and treatment of the lower extremities
* Shin splints occur when the muscle and tendon attached to the shin become inflamed due to stress fractures. Treat with cold compresses immediately after exercising. Proper stretching and strengthening exercises help prevent shin splints. * Achilles Tendonits is the result of tightness in the calf and the subsequent aggravation of the Achilles tendon. Stretching the calf muscle properly before and after a game will minimize any discomfort. * Plantar Fasciitis, commonly referred to as arch and heel pain, occurs when the fascia that runs along the bottom of the foot becomes inflamed. Heel spurs may also be present as a result of an inflamed fascia. A qualified podiatrist can evaluate your condition and will sometimes prescribe custom fitted shoe inserts to correct the situation. Proper stretching techniques go a long way to alleviate the pain associated with this ailment.
Summer fun isn't much fun when your feet hurt, so keep these tips in mind when you are out there on the diamond:
* Learn proper stretching techniques and do them regularly * Check to be sure the playing surface is free of hazards * Get accustomed to new cleats before actually playing in them * Consult a podiatrist if your foot and ankle pain cannot be easily remedied * Have fun!!
Copyright (c) 2009 Dr. Jennifer Feeny
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Dr. Jennifer Feeny is a board certified podiatrist practicing in southwest Virginia. As a concerned mother of a high school athlete, she wrote this article to raise awareness and help prevent foot injuries during baseball season.To see more of what Dr. Feeny is saying, visit her blog, Blacksburg Foot Doctor, or website, Shenandoah Podiatry
Disclaimer: All information on this site is provided for informational purposes only! By no means is any
information presented herein intended to substitute for the advice provided to you by any health care or other professional
or organization.
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