With the 2012 season of the NFL opening this week, expect to see an increase in the number of sports-related injuries in the news. Already on opening day, the quarterback for the Arizona Cardinals, John Skelton, had to be carried off the field due to an ankle injury. Reports indicate that the injury is an ankle sprain, one of the most common ankle injuries. An ankle sprain is damage to the ligaments of the ankle, the soft tissue structures that keep the joint together. It is important to have an ankle injury evaluated so that the best course of treatment can be determined.

 If you think you have an ankle sprain, make an appointment with any of our foot doctors in our Troy office for evaluation. Signs of an ankle sprain include pain, bruising, and swelling. If it is determined that you have an ankle sprain, your doctor will likely recommend that you rest your ankle, and may place a bandage on it for support. Me or one of our doctors may also recommend that you ice the injury in 15 minute intervals several times a day, as well as keep the ankle elevated.

 As with many sports injuries, prevention is the key. Footwear that has good heel support will help prevent the ankle from rolling inwards. Running on solid, level surfaces gives you the most support and will help prevent falls. Lastly, make sure to warm up before doing any vigorous exercise. By following these steps you will hopefully prevent not only ankle injuries, but other sports related injuries that affect the leg and foot.

 Jeff Carlson, DPM

Boat shoes are a popular summer footwear choice for both men and women. They are often worn sockless, which unfortunately can cause foot odor and blisters. Here are some tips to keep your feet healthy if you wear boat shoes or any other shoes without socks:

 Keep your feet dry and odor free

Excess sweat inside your shoes allows odor-causing bacteria to grow. If your feet are especially sweaty, there are several things you can do to help prevent foot odor. Many companies make powders and sprays that can you apply to your shoes in the morning to keep your feet dry. Others make insoles that you can put in your shoes to cut down on odor. In addition, try to let your shoes air dry completely before wearing them again, even if it means avoiding wearing them for a day.

 Avoid blisters

Going sockless can also cause blisters. Your shoes should fit comfortably and should be broken in slowly to best avoid blisters. Putting a bandage on areas that take a lot of friction like the heel can help prevent blisters from occurring. Consider wearing “no-show” or “low-cut” socks that protect your heels but still give the effect of you being barefoot.

 If you should get a blister, do NOT pop it. This can lead to the blister becoming infected. There are many special bandages for blisters available at your local drug store that can prevent your blister from getting worse. If a blister is really bothersome, make an appointment at any one of our offices and I will be happy to look at it and recommend the best course of treatment.

 Dr. Eric Polansky