Don’t Let the Risk of Ankle Injuries Sideline from Playing Soccer
Soccer (or football) is hands down one of the most popular sports on the planet. And with the ever-increasing number of Vancouverites catching Whitecaps fever (myself included), interest in this world-famous sport has never been bigger. From elite athletes to weekend warriors, hordes of people are heading out to the nearest field to take part in a sport that so many people all over the world have come to embrace.
Twisting your ankle is a part of the game
Like many of you, I used to love racing of up and down the soccer field with my classmates during gym class, or on the weekends with my friends. I don’t think I ever took part in any competitive or recreational soccer league, however, without watching some of my fellow teammates get hurt.
Let’s be honest, getting hurt is part of the game. Sooner or later, someone is going to hobble off the field—or worse, get carried off. And without a doubt, one of the most common injuries from soccer is a sprained ankle. Between running nonstop on the field, weaving around players, or even being stepped on by them, it isn’t really all that shocking.
Managing your sprained ankle
Thankfully, it’s not all doom and gloom when it comes to on-field ankle injuries. If you have twisted or sprained your ankle, there are several steps you can take to speed up the healing process. The first thing you need to do is get off the field as quickly as possible—a little help getting to the sidelines from your coach or soccer buddies will help keep the pressure off your ankle. Next, you want to apply some ice to your ankle, making sure to avoid placing it directly on your skin. Then, wrap your ankle with a bandage or elastic tape and elevate it above your heart to help stop pooling in your ankle.
Getting back in the game
When you have given your ankle enough time to heal and you’re ready to get back on the horse, wearing an ankle brace will help ease the pain and prevent further injury. The added support will also stabilize your ankle, allowing you to run, kick, and change directions like a pro (ok, well at least like your old self) again.
Don’t let an ankle injury keep you off the soccer field this season. If you are looking to prevent sprains, rollovers, and minimize the risk of overextension, a quality ankle brace really is the way to go.
Before you head out to the soccer field this year, come in to meet with our brace fitters today.
Taking up soccer this season or thinking about joining a league? Let us know, we would love to hear about it!