Podiatric Do’s and Don’ts for Winter Sports

At Goldsmith Podiatry we know that many of our patients are spending their weekend’s skiing, snowboarding, ice skating and participating in other winter sports. These activities are fun and can also provide good exercise but, certain precautions must be taken to avoid foot and ankle problems. Below are some do’s and don’ts to help you enjoy winter fun safely for your feet.

Do: start with a checkup with one of our podiatrists, Dr. Howard Goldsmith or Dr. Rosanna Troia. This is particularly important if you suffer from an ongoing foot issue such as bunions or weak ankles. The foot doctor can make recommendations for special accommodations to make your sport more comfortable. Special padding or an orthotic device can relieve pain and strain on your feet.

Don’t: start a new sport without some instruction. There are specific techniques for cross country and downhill skiing, ice skating and other sports that need to be learned to do the sport without getting hurt. Learning how to stop, start and even what to do if you are falling can go a long way toward preventing ankle sprains, fractures, and other injuries. Consider taking a lesson from a professional before you begin.

Don’t: neglect warming up and stretching appropriately before exercise. This will greatly reduce the risk of injury.

Do: get the proper footwear. You’ll want shoes or boots that are good quality, will keep your feet dry and warm and also provide the necessary support and padding for your ankles, arches, and heels. Get professionally fitted if you are buying winter sports gear and if you are renting, be sure the boots you rent feel comfortable before you leave the shop.

Do: stay hydrated. You may not feel as thirsty during sports activities in the cold weather, but you still need to replace the fluids you lost. Drinking plenty of water can help you avoid painful edema (swelling) of your feet and ankles as well as keep you energized and alert.

Don’t: go it alone. Always enjoy outdoor activities with at least one other person so that if you are injured, there is someone who can help you or get help. If you experience a sprain, fall or other non-emergency injury, contact our Upper West Side office as soon as possible by calling: 212-877-1002.