Showing posts with label Plantar Fasciitis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Plantar Fasciitis. Show all posts

Monday, March 4, 2013

Kickboxing and Feet Injuries

Boxing gloves in use in a professional kickbox...
(Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Martial arts have grown in popularity over the years with people all ages as a great way to maintain fitness. Kickboxing is one style of martial that takes a great deal of training, strength, flexibility and balance. While these qualities are good things to develop, injuries do happen due to the nature of the activity and the movements involved.

What injuries can happen in kickboxing?

Feet and ankles suffer about 10% of the injuries that typically occur in martial arts. There is a lot of punching and kicking involved in kickboxing and when moves are done with the wrong technique or poor training, injury can result. Common kickboxing injuries include:

Plantar Fasciitis. This can develop due to the constant pivoting and elevation of the foot that happens when doing kicks. The supporting foot on the ground is often up on the ball of the foot, which can strain the plantar fascia over time.

Achilles tendonitis. In a single training session, a kick boxer can perform up to 500 kicks. The Achilles tendon is essential when performing kicks and can sustain overuse, resulting in tendonitis.

Sesamoiditis. The sesamoid bones are two little pea-sized bones in the ball of your foot. Due to your feet often being elevated during kicking, these bones can become irritated and inflamed.

Hematoma. With feet and legs striking targets or opponents, this is a very common injury in kickboxing. It is when bleeding develops inside your foot or leg.

For many of these injuries, simple steps such as rest, icing and elevation often allow the injury to heal on its own. Dr. Tina Boucher, a foot specialist in Meriden, CT warns that any persistent pain or problem should be seen immediately. The injury may be more serious that you can see and more aggressive treatment may be needed before it gets even worse. Make an appointment by calling our podiatric office at (203) 238-3668 or visit us online at www.centralctfootcare.com.
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Monday, December 10, 2012

Breaking Down Barefoot Running

English: Friction Blisters on Human foot due t...
Friction Blisters on Human foot due to running barefoot. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Among the many fads and fashion statements that cycle through, a fairly controversial one has been that of barefoot running. It is controversial because there are two fighting sides to the issue. There are groups that fully support and encourage barefoot running as the only true way our feet were supposed to run. Others, however strongly oppose this activity for the reasons of foot health and injury.

The bottom line is that foot health is extremely important and needs to be a priority. If you are interested in barefoot running, you need to know the facts being given on both sides and make an educated decision that ultimately will keep feet safe in the long run.

The Pro’s

Some studies have shown that barefoot running can actually prevent injury and improve and enhance a runner’s stride. Supporters suggest that it encourages you to land on your forefoot, which helps strengthen your arch as a shock absorber. Barefoot running may work smaller muscles in your body that help improve balance and also strengthen muscles and ligaments in feet.

The Con’s

The underlying negative is that barefoot running can put foot health at risk. Feet can be exposed to dangerous debris such as glass and sharp rocks. Blisters and calluses can form from running without protective cushioning. Common injuries seen in podiatric offices from barefoot running include plantar fasciitis, Achilles strain and abrasions.

Before your bare feet hit the pavement, listen to trusted experts such as Dr. Tina Boucher, foot and ankle specialist in Meriden, CT. She can provide a thorough foot analysis and help decide if this activity is right for your foot health. To schedule an appointment or find further information, call our office at (203) 238-3668 or visit us at www.centralctfootcare.com.
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