The Physical Performance Show Ep 367: Dr Sue Mayes (AM) 'Expert Edition: Managing Foot & Ankle Injuries'
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Jun 20, 2025 In this engaging discussion, sports physiotherapist Sue Mayes shares over 30 years of expertise in managing foot and ankle injuries. Former lead physiotherapist at the Australian Ballet, she revolutionizes injury prevention with innovative research on strength training and calf raises tailored for dancers and athletes. Sue challenges traditional stretching practices, advocates for strategic rehabilitation approaches, and emphasizes the significance of building trust in recovery. Her insights provide valuable lessons for both clinicians and athletes.
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Calf Raises Cut Ballet Injuries
- Implementing targeted calf raises in the Australian Ballet drastically reduced injury rates, especially posterior ankle pain and stress fractures.
- This intervention replaced the traditional focus on excessive calf stretching with strength-building practices.
Avoid Prolonged Calf Stretching
- Avoid prolonged calf stretching as it can be counterproductive and unnecessary.
- Better flexibility comes from warming up muscles, improving blood flow, and activating muscles around the ankle and foot.
Imaging Doesn’t Equal Symptoms
- Most imaging findings like cysts and swelling don't correlate well with symptoms in foot and ankle injuries.
- Clinical examination focused on impairments is more reliable for diagnosis than imaging alone.