As spring arrives, that can mean only one thing: baseball season is here! But this can pose problems for the health of your feet. That goes double when you’re sliding into base – podiatrists treat thousands of sliding injuries each season. Here’s how to get your feet to play ball.
Make sure you slide correctly
Kids, especially, like to slide around as much as they can on the baseball field – but if they do it wrong, there’s a pretty high chance their day at the ballpark can turn into a painful ordeal. Sprains, bruises and even fractures can all be caused by poor sliding technique.
- Make sure you learn the proper, safe way to slide into base, and teach your kids how to do it, too.
- Never slide spikes-up. You may have seen pro ball players do it, but that doesn’t mean you should.
Wear the right shoes
It sounds simple, but you’d be surprised how many people go into a baseball game wearing ill-fitting shoes. Doing that makes it much more likely that you’ll suffer a foot injury which will need a podiatrist’s care. Twisted ankles and jammed toes are big risks if your shoes don’t fit well.
- Take your time choosing a baseball shoe. Always try it on before you buy, and ask for recommendations.
- Look for shoes with a close-fitting heel to keep you stable, but plenty of space around the toes to avoid cramping.
- Don’t keep wearing old shoes. After around 70 hours’ play, you’ll need to start looking for a new pair.
Prepare before the game even begins
Avoiding injury to your feet when sliding into base isn’t only about you – it’s also about where you play and how you get yourself ready for your big ball game. If you go in cold, without checking anything, you’re asking for trouble.
- Check all the bases to make sure they’re properly secured. Skidding on a loose base is a common cause of ankle sprains.
- Warm up properly before the game. If you’re wearing cleats, make sure you’re used to how they feel on the ballpark.