Skateboarding can cause serious foot, ankle injuries

Washington, Aug 27 (ANI): The thrill of skateboarding might give rise to severe foot and ankle injuries among kids and young adults, warn experts from American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons (ACFAS).

The tricks like 'riding a rail' or 'catching air' can be physically demanding and lead to minor bruises to open wounds or cuts to more serious foot and ankle sprains and fractures, which may require surgical repair.

Virginia-based foot and ankle surgeon, Jennifer Purvis, DPM, AACFAS, advises skateboarders to use caution and wear protective gear, including properly supportive shoes, when skateboarding.

"Skateboarding can be particularly hard on your feet and ankles because of the impact caused when performing jumps and tricks," said Purvis.

"Skateboarders should be aware that the strain from repetitive, forceful motions can also cause painful foot and heel conditions such as plantar fasciitis, bone spurs and Achilles tendonitis, which may require more intensive, longer-term therapies," she added.

Even minor cuts or abrasions on your feet can cause serious problems.

Purvis said she had recently treated a 21-year-old skateboarder for scrapes on his feet and ankles that were not healing.

And the tests indicated he had contracted MRSA - a very serious and sometimes deadly staph infection, which required surgery and four weeks of antibiotic therapy.

"A common misconception about foot and ankle fractures is that if you can walk on the foot, there isn't a fracture," said Karl Collins, DPM, FACFAS, who practices in St. Louis.

"That's not always the case, and only a proper diagnosis can rule out a serious injury requiring an advanced treatment plan," he added. (ANI)