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March Madness is Taking Over!

The bracket has been revealed! Although the hometown Syracuse Orange were snubbed and left out of the field of 68 that made the NCAA tournament, they secured a top seed in the NIT tournament. However, with so many top-level basketball games to be played over the next few weeks, there are bound to be a number of foot and ankle injuries ranging from minor to severe. As a sport that involves sprinting, jumping, lateral movements, twisting, turning, and awkward landings, basketball can put players of all ages and abilities at risk of injury.

All athletes can pull muscles when they are not properly warmed up, so it is important to start each training session with some simple ankle and lower leg stretches. Beyond these injuries, basketball players are prone to setbacks like ankle sprains, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and sesamoiditis. Selecting appropriate footwear is essential to injury prevention. Take note of the following recommendations:

  • Seek shoes that have extra cushioning, shock absorption, and traction
  • The sneakers should be secure around the heel, but roomier around the toes
  • Look for sneakers that are lightweight and breathable, which will help when your feet start to sweat
  • Consider shoes that have a higher ankle support
  • When trying on a pair, simulate a few moves you would make during a basketball game to ensure a proper fit
  • Although there are many flashy brands to pick from, always choose comfort over style!

General soreness is normal after an intense game of basketball. However, sharp or persistent pain and swelling in your knees, feet, or ankles might be signs of a more serious injury. Board-certified podiatrist Dr. Ryan L. D’Amico is Central New York’s foot and ankle expert. He has experience treating sports injuries and athlete’s foot, and even specializes in reconstructive surgery. At Syracuse Podiatry, you can be sure that you will receive quality and compassionate care from Dr. D’Amico and his staff. If you have any questions or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact us or call our Fayetteville office at (315) 446-3668!

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