Causes of Foot Pain From Skiing

Throbbing ankles, aching shins, purple toes, arch pain, calf pain, and overall foot soreness after skiing may be signs that you need to examine your boots. The most common causes of foot pain from ski boots include bad fit, wrong flex, pressure points, packed out soles, bad buckle habits, and, yes, socks. Experts say your ski boots should be snug but not painfully tight, and they should provide good support to your feet and ankles. Make sure you choose boots with the right flex rating for your skiing style and experience level. Modern ski boots often offer customization options, including the ability to mold and modify specific areas to alleviate pressure points. If you experience throbbing or discomfort in the instep or arch of your feet, it could be due to soles that are flattened, compressed. Buckling your boots from the top down and leaning your shins into the tongue while sliding your feet to the back of the boot can ensure a snug fit without causing pain. Opt for lightweight, thin ski socks that provide warmth without overcrowding your boots. Socks with shin padding can help alleviate shin pain. If you experience persistent foot pain after skiing, it is suggested that you make an appointment with a chiropodist for guidance and solutions tailored to your needs.

Injuries to the foot and ankle are very common among athletes. If you have experienced an injury, please consult with one of the specialists from Thornhill Foot Clinic. Our chiropodists will assess your condition and provide you with quality foot and ankle treatment. 

Common Injuries Among Athletes: 

  • Achilles tendon injuries

  • Ankle strains or sprains

  • Plantar fasciitis

  • Fractures

  • Turf toe 

  • Joint dislocations

  • Sever’s disease

  • Morton’s neuroma

Symptoms

Symptoms will depend on the cause and severity of the injury. Common symptoms for a foot or ankle injury include pain, swelling, tenderness, bruising, a reduced range of motion, and difficulty bearing weight or walking on the affected foot or ankle. 

Diagnosis

Sports injuries are typically diagnosed after carefully examining the affected foot or ankle. This includes moving the injured area to test its range of motion. Medical history will need to be provided, as well as detailed information about how the injury occurred. Imaging studies, such as X-rays or MRIs, may be used to confirm or rule out certain diagnoses. 

Treatment

Just like symptoms, treatment will depend on the type of injury and its severity. Initial treatment for many sports injuries is aimed at controlling inflammation and promoting the healing response. The acronym R.I.C.E is a helpful guide to implement for most acute injuries. This method involves resting, icing, compressing, and elevating the affected foot or ankle. In addition, anti-inflammatory medications may be administered and orthotic devices may be prescribed. For more severe injuries, surgery may be required. Lastly, rehabilitation or physical therapy may be needed to gain full functionality in the afflicted area.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about Sports Related Foot and Ankle Injuries

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