"Thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment is essential in these injuries to prevent long-term problems."

Another important safety area is proper shoe wear. "Overuse injuries are commonly due to inadequate or worn out foot wear and muscle imbalance around the foot and ankle," adds Amendola.

Robert B. Anderson, MD, team physician for an NFL team and vice-president of the AOFAS Board of Directors, agrees saying proper shoe wear results in a reduced incidence of foot and ankle injuries. He suggests:

• Throw out old shoes
• Monitor the wear of existing shoes
• Make certain of proper fit and style

"Statistics show that the number of foot and ankle injuries in professional athletics has been slowly rising but without clear causes and it is due to this reason that the NFL has created the Foot and Ankle Subcommittee of the Injury and Safety Panel," says Anderson.

Some of the most common injuries include: ankle sprains, Achilles tendon injury, shin splints and overuse injuries, resulting in stress fractures and muscle/tendon strains.

What are some of the most important ways to prevent sports injuries? The AOFAS developed these tips to reduce injury risk:

• Warm up before any sports activity
• Participate in a conditioning program to build muscle strength
• Do stretching exercises daily
• Listen to your body: never run if you experience pain in the foot or ankle
• Nourish your muscles by eating a well-balanced diet
• Wear protective equipment appropriate for that sport
• Replace athletic shoes as soon as the tread or heel wears out
• Stay a step ahead of sport-related injuries by wearing the right athletic shoes for the activity and making sure they fit properly

For more information:

UI Sports Medicine

Ned Amendola, MD

American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle society (AOFAS)