At The Walking Clinic we utilise our expertise in sports podiatry to play a crucial role in enhancing athletic performance and preventing injuries. With a focus on diagnosing, managing, and preventing lower limb injuries related to physical activity and sporting endeavours. Given the repetitive strain and high impact that sports place on the feet, ankles, and legs, our team of podiatrists specialise in ensuring athletes maintain optimal biomechanics and musculoskeletal health.
One of the primary roles of sports podiatrists is analysing an athlete’s gait and biomechanics. By assessing how the foot strikes the ground, joint motion, and the distribution of forces during a specific movement. Poor biomechanics can lead to overuse injuries such as shin splints, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, and stress fractures. By identifying imbalances or irregularities, we can recommend corrective measures such as custom orthotics, footwear modifications, strapping techniques, or exercise prescription to keep you achieving your sporting goals.
Footwear is another critical aspect of injury prevention in sports podiatry. Each sport places unique demands on the feet and wearing the wrong shoes can increase the risk of injury. Our podiatrists can guide athletes in choosing appropriate footwear that provides the necessary support, cushioning, and stability. For example, running shoes with proper arch support and shock absorption can help minimise stress on joints, while the correct pitch and stud configuration can dramatically alter ground forces.
Prehabilitation, or proactive injury prevention, is another key focus area. Our team can design customised exercise programs to strengthen specific muscle groups, improve flexibility, and enhance proprioception (body awareness). These programs help athletes prepare their bodies for the rigors of their sport, reducing the likelihood of injuries caused by fatigue, instability, or sudden movements.
Early diagnosis and intervention are vital when injuries occur. Employing a range of techniques like taping, bracing, and manual therapy to manage acute conditions. We regularly collaborate with our team of physiotherapists at The Canberra Physio Clinic and sports physicians for comprehensive rehabilitation. This multidisciplinary approach ensures a quicker and safer return to activity while minimising the risk of re-injury.
Podiatry in sports is an essential field for athletes at all levels. By addressing biomechanical issues, guiding proper footwear selection, and promoting prehabilitation, sports podiatrists help athletes stay in peak condition. Our expertise not only prevents injuries but also maximises performance, allowing individuals to enjoy sports safely and sustainably, at whatever level that may be.
