Martial arts is a popular activity that offers numerous benefits such as enhanced flexibility, muscle control, increased strength, and improved mental well-being. However, it is important to note that some individuals may encounter foot pain as a potential drawback of engaging in this practice.
Martial arts training can sometimes lead to the development of plantar fasciitis, a prevalent injury characterized by inflammation in the band of tissue supporting the sole of the foot. This condition often arises from the repetitive jumping and pivoting movements involved in martial arts practice. Plantar fasciitis can cause discomfort and pain in the affected area, making it important to take preventative measures and seek appropriate treatment to minimize the risk and effects of this condition.
Sever’s Disease
Sever’s Disease, also known as calcaneal apophysitis, is a common condition that affects the growth plate in the heel bone of children. This condition occurs due to repetitive strain or excessive pressure on the heel, often caused by overuse during activities such as running or jumping. However, it is important to note that Sever’s Disease is not an actual disease, but rather an inflammation of the growth plate. Fortunately, most cases of Sever’s Disease can resolve on their own as the growth plate matures. It is crucial to manage the symptoms through rest, appropriate footwear, and possible stretching exercises to alleviate discomfort and promote healing. Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can provide further assistance and guidance in managing Sever’s Disease effectively.
Children and teenagers involved in impact sports are at an increased risk for developing this condition, but running on hard surfaces, having flat feet or wearing shoes without adequate heel support could also contribute.
Most athletes who suffer from Sever’s Disease will benefit from rest and ice therapy; however, other treatments, such as heel cups or orthoses for shoes, physical therapy sessions, or stretching techniques may also help.
Tendinitis
Martial arts training can put immense strain on tendons, particularly the Achilles tendon that connects calf muscles to heel bone. Repetitive stresses like kicking motions can irritate this tendon and lead to pain, swelling and inflammation.
Tendinitis, or inflammation of the thick cords connecting muscles to bones (tendons), typically affects shoulders, elbows, wrists and knees.
Chronic tendinitis may lead to tendon rupture and should be treated through rest, physical therapy and medicines; if symptoms do not improve in several days or they interfere with daily activities then seeking medical advice should be considered immediately.
Tendons are protected by a protective capsule which releases synovial fluid to provide joint lubrication and keep bones from rubbing against each other and becoming irritated. This capsule also assists in relieving tension.
Sesamoiditis
Sesamoiditis occurs when the tendons surrounding two small pea-sized bones located just under your big toe (known as first metatarsal head bone) become inflamed or irritated, impairing movement and relieving load bearing. These tendons play an integral part of everyday life allowing you to move around freely while also helping absorb load effectively.
Running, dancing or wearing high heels can put added strain on the tendons that transmit force through sesamoids, leading to possible discomfort in these tendons.
Martial artists are susceptible to these injuries as their activity places repetitive strain on the plantar aspect of their great toe when performing kicks, in addition to frequently wearing shoes without proper foot support putting added strain on their feet.
Injurys to the hallucal sesamoid can often result from repeated kicking motions and can result in swelling behind or under the great toe joint. Treatment includes rest, ice, compression and elevation for early healing of this injury limb.
Plantar Fasciitis
Martial arts disciplines offer numerous physical benefits to improve flexibility, muscle control and strength while providing mental health advantages like stress reduction and an outlet for anger or frustration.
However, martial arts training can cause orthopedic foot injuries such as plantar fasciitis and sesamoiditis if practiced incorrectly – such injuries often caused by kicks, jumps, pivoting and pivoting while training.
Plantar Fasciitis occurs when inflammation of a band of tissue called the plantar fascia that runs along the bottom part of your foot causes pain. A classic sign is experiencing first few steps upon awakening; however, symptoms can occur any time of the day or night.
If you are a martial artist who experiences foot pain, it is imperative to get it checked out immediately by your podiatrist to prevent serious injuries from developing.
You might also like to read:
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar Fasciitis and IASTM Techniques
Plantar Fasciitis and Zero Drop Shoes
