Gymnastics is one of those sports, where the athletes make it look so easy. Unless you’ve tried it, you may think that it’s just something that you just need to practice. However, it takes years and years of training, conditioning, and strengthening to build muscles and have your body learn to move in that smooth, sleek fashion. It also takes trial and error, and more likely than not, injuries to the feet and ankles. That’s why gymnasts must learn early on, how to protect their feet and ankles to prevent injury. Not taking precautions, such as the ones listed below can lead to many painful injuries:

• Coaches should be made aware of any chronic or developmental issues, as well as any previous injuries.
• Strength, Balance, and Flexibility exercises should be taken seriously and gymnasts should make sure to do adequate warm-up before they practice, practice, practice their technique.
• Use tape or wraps to help with certain strains or injuries to the feet or ankles to prevent from worsening.
• Do not attempt new techniques without adequate preparation, the right safety equipment, and a confident attitude. Children, especially, should not be forced to try difficult or possibly dangerous techniques without a good mindset.
• See a doctor promptly if you sustain a severe injury. For mild sprains, use the RICE method (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation) to relieve pain. If pain persists or gets worse, make an appointment to see our podiatrist.

Not taking steps to reduce risk of injury can lead to serious injury. Gymnasts can expect to experience muscle soreness, in which recovery and hydration is key, but other conditions require more attention. Look for signs of the following common injuries:

• Sprained or Twisted Ankles – A loss of balance or improper landing can lead to an ankle injury. Most likely, there will be pain at the moment of injury or when the gymnast tries to put weight on it. If the pain and/or swelling is mild, try the RICE method. If the injury is severe, see a doctor immediately. 
• Stress Fractures and Acute Fractures – While broken bones are not as common as sprained, fractures can occur. Stress fractures can build under repetitive pressure while acute fractures can happen from an improper position or landing. If you cannot bear weight or have excruciating pain, see a doctor immediately.
• Overuse Injuries such as Achilles Tendonitis or Joint Pain – Certain repetitive motions, unprotected high impact landings, and lack of good technique or form can lead to many different overuse injuries. At the first sign of pain in any part of the body, it’s best to have it checked instead of ignoring it or “shaking it off” as it can get worse over time.

If you or your child has a gymnastics-related foot or ankle injury, make an appointment to come see us ASAP. Early treatment can mean better results so that we can have you back at practice. Dr. Jonathan M. Kletz of Texas Foot Works is more than happy to help you at any of our Abrams (Dallas), Athens, and Gun Barrell City, TX offices.