One of the biggest hindrances to treating and recovering from certain foot conditions is that fact that you pretty much need your feet in order to get around. If you’re dealing with problems like an ankle sprain, a stress fracture or plantar fasciitis, it can be difficult to heal quickly if you’re intent on staying active. That being said, if you know how to best tackle the problem and you’re smart about your activity, you can treat foot problems without becoming sedentary. Below, we take a closer look at how to manage certain foot and ankle conditions while remaining active.
Staying Active After an Injury
Most doctors will tell you that resting shouldn’t be your only treatment modality after a foot injury. Activity helps to strengthen key structures and promotes healthy blood flow to the area, which aids in healing. However, you need to be sure that you find a balance and that you’re not doing more harm than good when it comes to your activity level. Here’s how to best stay active and treat your foot condition at the same time.
1. Physical Therapy – All of these tips can vary based on your specific condition, but in most cases, physical therapy may play a key role in helping you heal. Physical therapy helps to strengthen crucial structures that support the injured area, so it will help you heal and support you during activity. Be sure to stick to your PT plan after an injury.
2. Don’t Overdo It – This is easier said than done, but you can’t just keep doing the same things and expect your foot to magically get better. Cut back on the sports and intense exercise, even if it’s just for a few days. The first few days after an injury are when a good portion of important healing takes place, so continuing to disrupt that with intense activity can really set you back. Dial back the activity and then slowly increase your activity levels as you heal.
3. Diet and Hydration – An oft-overlooked aspect of your foot and ankle recovery is your diet after an injury. Your body always needs key nutrients from your diet, but even more so when you’re recovering from an injury, as this can help promote healing. On the flip side, if you’re eating poorly, you may gain weight and put more stress on your feet. Drinking enough water also helps increase circulation, so make sure you’re drinking plenty of water throughout the day.
4. Medications and Modifications – Anti-inflammatory medications can help to prevent against inflammation that can inhibit healing, while other modifications may need to be made in your daily life to help protect your foot. Things like a walking boot, crutches, and shoe modifications can all help protect your foot while it recovers.
For more tips on how to stay active while recovering from a foot injury, or to have a specialist take a look at your foot or ankle condition, reach out to Dr. Silverman and his experienced team at Silverman Ankle & Foot today.