Staying in the Game: A Parent’s Guide to Understanding Sports Injuries

Sports are a fantastic way for kids and teens to stay active, build confidence, and learn the value of teamwork. For many families in Calgary, athletics are a big part of daily life! But with all that activity, injuries can sometimes happen, and when they do, every parent’s first thought is how to help their child heal and safely return to the game they love.

That’s where the right care makes all the difference. At North Hill Foot & Ankle Clinic in Calgary, our team specializes in diagnosing and treating sports injuries with precision and compassion. Whether your child is a competitive athlete or enjoys weekend play, we’re here to provide expert treatment and supportive guidance to get them moving again, stronger, safer, and ready to stay in the game.

1. The Crucial Step: Accurate Diagnosis

The path to recovery always begins with a precise diagnosis. When a foot or ankle injury occurs, especially during high-impact sports like hockey, running, or basketball, it’s vital to understand exactly what the damage is.

A simple twist or roll of the ankle can lead to different issues that require specific care. For instance, an ankle sprain involves damage to the ligaments, which are the elastic bands connecting bones, caused by stretching them beyond their normal range of motion. Conversely, an ankle strain affects the muscles and tendons.

Even more serious are fractures, which involve a partial or complete break in the bone. Because it can be easy to mistake a fracture for a less severe sprain or strain, timely and professional assessment is critical. Our process involves a thorough clinical assessment, often supplemented by imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans, to ensure an accurate picture of the injury. This meticulous approach prevents further damage and sets the stage for optimal healing.

2. Comprehensive Treatment Options for Swift Recovery

Once an accurate diagnosis is made, a personalized treatment plan can begin. For many minor foot and ankle injuries, initial care may involve the widely recognized RICE protocol: Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation. This is the first line of defence against swelling and pain.

For more complex or underlying foot disorders, specialized care is necessary. For example, if a fracture is severe, surgery may be required to place plates, rods, or screws to stabilize the bones during healing. However, many chronic issues and soft tissue injuries benefit from non-invasive, modern therapies. For persistent pain, such as that caused by heel pain or plantar fasciitis, or severe tendon damage, treatments like Shockwave Treatment can be utilized to promote natural healing and reduce discomfort.

We also focus on long-term prevention. In many cases, correcting structural anomalies like flatfeet or addressing other contributing factors requires specialized support. This is where treatments like custom orthotics come into play. These devices are custom-made to stabilize the foot, improve alignment, and reduce strain, helping to prevent re-injury once your young athlete is ready to return to sport.

3. Focus on Foot Health Beyond the Field

While major injuries take the spotlight, an athlete’s best defence is consistent preventative care. Wearing the right, well-fitted gear, ensuring proper warm-up, and taking adequate rest are foundational steps.

It is also important for athletes to prioritize their overall foot health, as even minor issues can sideline an otherwise healthy player. Conditions like stubborn plantar warts can be treated effectively with non-invasive options, such as laser wart treatment. At the same time, common issues like ingrown toenails require essential treatments to maintain comfort and prevent infection when wearing athletic footwear.

Our goal is not just to treat an injury, but to partner with you and your athlete to ensure a quick, safe, and complete return to sport. If you or your child has suffered a sports injury, don't wait for the pain to subside on its own.

Contact North Hill Foot & Ankle Clinic today to schedule a consultation and receive the proper sports injury treatment in Calgary.