Know how to prevent foot injuries while enjoying another season on the field.
For many, the best season of the year is upon us: football season. While some people enjoy sitting down on a Sunday afternoon to 
watch the game on the big screen others enjoy playing in their own games. Pick up some helpful tips from our Tampa, FL podiatrists Dr. Fred Kussel, Dr. Naomi Marsh and Dr. Kristina Kuba on how to protect one of your most important assets while playing football: your feet.
Always Warm-Up
If you want to prevent injuries then you’ll want to take some time before each game or practice to warm-up. Opt for a slow jog and choose active over passive stretching to get the muscles ready to take on the game.
Maintain Your Muscles
You should never just jump right into a season without preparing your body for it. This means gradually increasing the duration and intensity of your training, even in the off-season. Choose to cross train with other physical activities to help build muscle and maintain flexibility.
Wear the Right Shoes
The shoes you wear are important to keeping your feet safe while in the heat of the game. People who have low arches or pronate may want to opt for shoes that provide a little more support for their feet. Always choose shoes that are designed for your sport.
Know When to Replace Shoes
Our Tampa, FL foot doctors recommend replacing shoes every three to four months or when you start to notice the treads or the heel wearing out. Serious athletes may find that they need to replace their shoes more often than every three months.
Listen to What Your Body is Telling You
If you are starting to experience pain during a game it’s important that you pay attention to what your body is telling you and stop. Yes, this may mean sitting out for the rest of the game, but doing this could protect you from an injury that could keep you out for the rest of the season. Do not ignore your body!
Give your feet the care they deserve and you’ll find yourself with a very healthy, injury-free season. Whether you want to get custom orthotics or you just need to schedule a physical, turn to the foot care experts at Tampa Bay Podiatry.