“Kickboxers wear gloves but not shoes. Isn’t it easier to hurt your feat if they have nothing to protect them?” —Dax, 14 Greenwich Village
Dax, with 26 bones, 33 joints, more than 100 muscles and an intricate network of nerves and blood vessels the foot is a very complex and amazing structure of our body. As with any sport wearing the right protective gear is key.
The risk one poses from a high velocity activity such as kickboxing without proper foot guards are many. There are no shortage of aches, bruises, strains, joint dislocation and even fractures that I will see from the direct impact of unprotected feet and ankles during this sport. Such injuries can keep you out of the game for a long time. Which is why I always advise athletes to properly protect themselves.
There are many good foot and ankle guards on the market. Made from dense foam, leather or rubber padding these devices will give you the protection you need to help prevent you from being a patient in the office.
Such protective gear will help properly pad the top portion of the lower leg, ankle, foot and toes.
With any acute injury it is good practice to follow the pneumonic R.I.C.E which stands for rest, ice, compression and elevation. If there is any question of damage to the underlying bones, tendons or soft tissue be sure you visit your local sports doc as he/she may wish to take an x-ray to ensure nothing is broken.
Also, speak to experienced athletes and coaches to ensure your technique and form is the best it can be. Proper foot and leg placement during kick boxing is important to make certain you are not making yourself more injury prone. Injuries are common but can be avoided if proper precautions are taken.
Thanks for the question Dax, hope all this helps!
Bio:
Daniel Geller, D.P.M. is a Sports Podiatrist and Foot Surgeon in New York City. His practice has been helping many of the area’s recreation and top-level athletes alike achieve their best and get back in the game quickly.
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