With the hottest days behind us, the Jays in post-season playoffs and hockey ramping up once again, it’s time to get ready for fall/winter sports! If you’re ready for a fun, competitive season in a rec league and hoping to wrap it without injury, we’ve got some expert tips to help make this sports season your best!
Steer Clear of Lace Bites
Whether you’re an in-liner or ice player, you’ll be lacing up before the ball or puck drops. Hockey players are at risk of lace bite, a condition that results in sharp pain or pressure along the extensor hallucis tendon, running from the big toe up to the front of the lower leg. If you’re familiar with this discomfort, guess what? It’s time for new skates! Despite its name, lace bite isn’t solely a lacing problem, but occurs when your skates are the wrong size, not properly accommodating the depth of your feet. If you’re already suffering from lace bite (and en route to buy new skates, of course), temporarily treat this pain with an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication.
Avoid Pump Bumps
Properly referred to as Haglund’s Deformity, ‘pump bump’ is a bony enlargement on the back of the heel that can lead to bursitis, a fluid-filled inflammation that can be painful and irritating, especially if the affected area rubs against any type of footwear. At its most extreme, pump bump may require surgery and/or injections, but in its least complicated state, different shoes can be a solution. Definitely check in with a qualified practitioner to ensure your feet are in the best shape possible!