Roller skating is one of the best family activities in Leesburg (or anywhere!), giving parents and kids alike the chance to have fun, make friends, and best of all, incorporate physical fitness into their lives. There are so many health benefits of roller skating, from building muscle and improving balance to improving cardiovascular health and stamina. However, like any other sport, roller skating can sometimes cause foot and ankle pain. Read on to learn some of the most common causes of roller skating foot pain and what you can do about it.
3 Common Reasons for Foot Pain While Roller Skating
Tightness of the Achilles tendon
If you don’t stretch regularly, you should start – stretching is important for any physical activity! The Achilles tendon can be a particularly problematic area for skaters, so be sure to give it some extra attention with lunges and wall push-ups. Start slow and gentle and build up as your flexibility improves.
Plantar fasciitis
This condition causes sharp pain in the bottom of the foot due to inflammation of the band of tissue that connects your heel with the ball of your foot. It’s fairly common among runners and walkers who have gone from little to no activity to an intense activity level in a short period of time, as well as among skaters who do a lot of jumps and high-impact tricks. Fortunately it can easily be treated with ibuprofen and rest.
Improperly laced or fitted skates
Just as you wouldn’t attempt to run a 10k with ill-fitting shoes, you should not roller skate with ill-fitting skates! If your skates are too big or too small, you can end up with painful blisters and chafing, or even worse conditions like hammer toe. If your skates are the right size, but are laced too tightly, you can end up with lace bite. Lace bite is irritation to the top of the foot caused by the pressure and rubbing of the laces.
If you’re experiencing issues with your roller skates or need help choosing a new pair of skates, we’re happy to help! Come visit us at our pro shop in Skate World Leesburg.
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