Whether you’re a professional dancer or taking classes for fun, prioritizing ankle and foot care will help you achieve your best performance. As such, there are a few common dance injuries to be aware of so you can practice prevention and effective treatment when necessary. Here’s what you should know. 

3 Foot & Ankle Injuries That Can Affect Dancers 

1. Ankle Sprains

Certain dance movements, jumps, and kicks push your ankles beyond the normal range of motion. These efforts can lead to ankle sprains if ligaments become overstretched or torn.

The best way to avoid this type of injury is to follow best foot care practices, such as stretching before and after you dance. Wearing braces, icing exerted ankle muscles, and embracing physical therapy can also help you avoid injury. 

2. Bunions

Dancing does not necessarily cause bunions; however, the fact that dancers need to wear tight-fitting shoes and have flexible feet can exacerbate the issue and cause these sores to develop.

Since bunions can result in stiffness and pain, dancers should take measures to prevent them. These might include limiting time in tight dancing shoes, wearing toe spacers or shoe inserts, and performing exercises to strengthen toe muscles. 

3. Plantar Fasciitis

When you’re on your feet dancing for extended periods each day, the fibrous band of tissue that runs along the sole of your foot from the heel to the toes can become inflamed. This condition, known as plantar fasciitis, can be painful, especially when you have tight calves and ankle tendons.

The best foot care protocol to curb symptoms related to plantar fasciitis includes resting, icing your feet, and stretching to release tight muscles. You can also use overnight splints to help the affected tissue. 

Headed by board-certified podiatrist Danny J. Aquilar and conveniently located in Russellville, AR, Aquilar Foot Care Clinic provides personalized service, effective treatment, and lifestyle recommendations to curb foot pain. Residents throughout the River Valley depend on this modern clinic for innovative foot care in a welcoming environment. Schedule your first appointment today by calling (479) 890-3668. To learn more about this foot clinic’s services and commitment to one-on-one patient time, visit their website.