Managing Flat Feet After Sports Injuries: Recovery and Treatment Options

Flatfoot after sports injuries

Hello Doctor: I am an athlete on my university team.
A month ago, I injured my ankle while jumping during practice.
I thought it was just a sprain, but after visiting two hospitals and experiencing persistent pain for a month, I learned from a doctor that I have flat feet.
The doctor mentioned that my ligaments have been tight due to long-term physical activity, and since this injury, I have been unable to return to my previous condition.
I will continue to experience pain whenever I exercise.
Currently, I am waiting to see if using arch supports will help improve my situation.
I am unsure if a lack of improvement means I am unsuitable for high-impact sports.
If the arch supports do not alleviate the pain, are there other methods available for improvement? Have you encountered similar cases before?

Xiaoyun, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/03/23

Dr. Xu Zhenrong reply Rehabilitation

Hello, Xiaoyun.
Based on your description, it seems that you have an ankle sprain that has not fully recovered.
The recovery process for an ankle injury consists of three phases:
1.
Acute Phase: The joint will swell, be painful, and may even prevent you from walking.
2.
Subacute Phase: Swelling will no longer increase and will gradually subside until you can walk without pain.
3.
Chronic Phase: The joint's range of motion will be pain-free in all directions until muscle strength is fully restored.
Recommended treatment methods include focusing on pain relief and reducing swelling during the acute and subacute phases.
You should apply ice to the injured area, elevate it, and compress it.
When walking, it is advisable to use assistive devices such as crutches or ankle braces.
In the chronic phase, the focus should be on increasing joint mobility and muscle strength.
You can perform stretching and resistance exercises within a pain-free range, as well as practice standing on one leg.
Regarding flat feet, simply put, there is an important structure in the human foot called the "medial longitudinal arch." This arch provides appropriate elasticity and torsion during walking or running, absorbing ground reaction forces to adapt to various terrains and achieve shock absorption.
Flat feet occur when there is a problem with the medial longitudinal arch, leading to its collapse.
Since the foot is the body's primary support structure in contact with the ground, the arch plays a crucial role in shock absorption.
Individuals with flat feet are not suited for activities that require prolonged walking or involve running and jumping.
After extended activity (such as long walks or running), foot pain may worsen, but it will slightly alleviate after resting.
Therefore, if flat feet are suspected and pain persists after a sprain, engaging in high-impact activities like running or jumping is not recommended.

Using appropriate arch supports can alleviate some pain, but it is still necessary to implement protective measures such as ankle braces.
I recommend that you consult a rehabilitation physician and a professional physical therapist for further evaluation and treatment.
The Rehabilitation Department at Taipei City Hospital is happy to provide you with professional medical consultation and services.

Director of the Rehabilitation Department, Hsu Chen-Jung.

Reply Date: 2006/03/23

More Info

Managing flat feet, especially after a sports injury, can be a challenging process that requires a comprehensive approach to treatment and recovery. Flat feet, or pes planus, can lead to various complications, particularly in athletes who engage in high-impact sports. Given your situation, where you sustained an ankle injury that revealed underlying flat feet, it’s essential to address both the immediate pain and the long-term management of your condition.

Understanding Flat Feet and Its Implications
Flat feet occur when the arches of the feet are lowered or absent, which can lead to overpronation (excessive inward rolling of the foot) during activities. This condition can cause strain on the ligaments and muscles of the foot and ankle, leading to pain and discomfort, especially during physical activities. In your case, the injury may have exacerbated the symptoms associated with flat feet, making it difficult to return to your previous level of athletic performance.

Recovery and Treatment Options
1. Rest and Ice: Initially, it’s crucial to allow your ankle to rest and recover. Applying ice can help reduce inflammation and pain. Avoid activities that exacerbate your symptoms until the acute pain subsides.

2. Orthotic Devices: As your doctor suggested, using arch supports or custom orthotics can provide the necessary support to your feet. These devices can help redistribute pressure and improve alignment, potentially alleviating pain during activities. If you find that over-the-counter arch supports do not provide relief, consider consulting a podiatrist for custom orthotics tailored to your specific foot structure.

3. Physical Therapy: Engaging in physical therapy can be highly beneficial. A physical therapist can design a rehabilitation program that focuses on strengthening the muscles of the foot and ankle, improving flexibility, and correcting any biomechanical issues. Exercises may include:
- Strengthening exercises for the intrinsic muscles of the foot.

- Stretching exercises for the Achilles tendon and calf muscles.

- Balance and proprioception training to enhance stability.

4. Activity Modification: While recovering, it may be necessary to modify your activities. Low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling can help maintain fitness without putting excessive strain on your feet. Gradually reintroduce high-impact activities as your symptoms improve.

5. Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help manage pain and inflammation. However, consult your healthcare provider before starting any medication.

6. Surgical Options: In cases where conservative treatments fail to provide relief, surgical intervention may be considered. Procedures can vary from tendon transfers to realignment of the bones in the foot. This is typically a last resort after exhausting all non-invasive options.

Long-Term Management
If the arch supports do not alleviate your pain, it may indicate that your flat feet require more comprehensive management. Regular follow-ups with your healthcare provider are essential to monitor your condition and adjust your treatment plan as necessary.

Psychological Aspect
It’s also important to address the psychological impact of dealing with a sports injury and a chronic condition like flat feet. Many athletes experience anxiety about their ability to return to their sport. Engaging in mental health support, whether through counseling or support groups, can help you cope with these feelings and develop a positive mindset towards recovery.

Conclusion
In summary, managing flat feet after a sports injury involves a combination of rest, orthotic support, physical therapy, and possibly surgical options if conservative measures fail. It’s crucial to listen to your body and gradually return to activity while focusing on strengthening and supporting your feet. If you continue to experience pain despite these interventions, further evaluation by a specialist may be necessary to explore additional treatment options. Remember, many athletes successfully manage flat feet and continue to participate in their sports with the right approach.

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