If you're involved in sports like basketball, there's always a risk of injury while you're playing. Foot doctors often see sprained ankles, tendonitis, and shin splints in athletes who don’t take the right precautions when they head onto the court. Here's what you can do to support and protect your feet while you play.

Recommendations for Safeguarding Feet From Injury While Playing Basketball

1. Use the Right Gear

Start by choosing quality shoes with arch and ankle support. Make sure they fit your feet well. Shoes that are too loose or too tight can contribute to injuries and be uncomfortable to wear. Before a game, tape your ankles for extra support, especially if you've previously seen a foot doctor for an injury. If you're recovering from a sprain or have weak ankles, use an ankle brace with your doctor's guidance.

2. Warm Up

The muscles and tendons in your feet and ankles move more easily when they're warm and loose. The more thorough your warmup, the less likely you are to strain or tear muscles or tendons. Ankle circles, shin and calf raises, and single-leg balancing will help you warm up before every game.

3. Treat Athlete's Foot

Locker rooms are common places to pick up foot and toenail fungus. Wear shoes whenever you're in a shared space and flip-flops or shower shoes in the shower. Wash and dry your feet daily, and use foot powder and absorbent socks to keep your feet dry while playing. Air out your shoes completely between practices and games. In addition, take shoes home rather than leaving them in a poorly-ventilated locker.

If you need to see a foot doctor for a basketball injury or infection, choose St. Peters Foot & Ankle: Samuel T. Wood-DPM. They have 20 years of experience and serve clients in and around Florissant and St. Peters, MO. Call (636) 720-0190 for an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about their sports injury team.