Foot injuries are common, but why are they more prevalent in the summer? Summertime is the time of year where most of us become much more physically active. Running, participating in sports, and time spent outside all impact our feet.
Wearing sandals and flip-flops is very popular, especially here in Florida. But wearing these types of shoes decreases the amount of support we have for our feet and ankles.
What are Some of the Common Foot Injuries in the Summer?
Because we wear shoes with less support, the most common orthopedic foot injuries in the summer are:
- Heel pain
- Stress fractures
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Pain from bunions
- Sprains
What Causes These Injuries to Increase in the Summer?
Heel pain is usually related to Achilles’ tendonitis or plantar fasciitis. As more people get out into nature and start running, the repetitive pounding of your heel against the pavement can cause an injury and inflammation to the tendons in our feet.
The Achilles’ tendon is the tendon that attaches the calf muscle to the heel. The constant rubbing of the tendon against the bone in the heel promotes the development of tendonitis. Plantar fasciitis refers to the tendon that extends from the underside of our heel to the arch of the foot. Walking without supportive shoes, the tendon and the heel take quite a beating. And when we wear sandals or flip-flops, the arch of our foot has no support, causing inflammation along this tendon too.
Stress fractures are also prevalent as they can occur from not stretching properly when running or participating in sports.
Pain from bunions can be caused by wearing new shoes, walking barefoot, and any motion which causes constant rubbing. The pain can worsen from the pressure of a sandal or flip-flop across the bunion, causing inflammation and pain.
We all have “twisted” or sprained our ankle from time to time. This happens especially when we aren’t wearing supportive shoes, walking on uneven surfaces, or are participating in high-impact activities or sports. If the ankle turns far enough, the ligaments that hold the bones together can overstretch or tear, resulting in a sprain. A major sprain or several minor sprains can lead to permanent ankle instability.
Caring for Your Feet at Advanced Orthopedic Center in Port Charlotte, Florida
At Advanced Orthopedic Center, we provide the best in orthopedic care. Whether you have plantar fasciitis, a traumatic injury, or need a joint replacement, we will give you the attention you deserve to get you back on your feet and mobile again. The staff and physicians look forward to serving you.
Call us today at (941) 629-6262. We have two locations to serve you. Call and schedule your appointment for a consultation or use our secure online request form.
