198. Dr. Ryan Hansen on Healthy, High-Performing Feet
Aug 20, 2024
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Dr. Ryan Hansen, a chiropractor and manual therapist specializing in foot and ankle health, dives into the critical relationship between foot health and athletic performance. He shares insights on common injuries athletes face and the significant role of proper footwear. The conversation touches on the impact of cushioned shoes on sensory feedback and rehabilitation strategies for issues like bunions. Hansen advocates for strengthening foot mechanics and emphasizes the need for awareness about foot function in young athletes to prevent injuries and boost performance.
Proper foot and ankle function is essential for athletes, specifically in sports like baseball where footwear can restrict movement and cause injuries.
Injury prevention strategies should emphasize the importance of balancing rigorous training with effective recovery practices to mitigate overuse injuries.
Choosing the right footwear that accommodates an athlete's unique foot structure can significantly enhance performance and prevent injuries.
Deep dives
The Importance of Foot and Ankle Function
Foot and ankle function is crucial for athletes, especially in sports like baseball where cleated footwear can restrict movement. Neglecting foot health can lead to significant overuse injuries that affect overall athletic performance. A strong foundation in foot mechanics allows for better absorption of forces and can mitigate the risk of injuries like Achilles tendinopathy or plantar fasciitis. The emphasis on understanding and optimizing foot function can have far-reaching benefits across various athletic disciplines.
Addressing Overuse Injuries
Overuse injuries are a major concern for athletes at all levels, particularly with metrics showing lengthy recovery times for injuries like ulnar collateral ligament damage. Strategies for injury prevention need to include not only rigorous training but also focused attention to recovery practices. This is where tools like the Mark Pro can be beneficial, promoting recovery without the risk of overstressing tendons and joints. Understanding the balance between training and recovery is essential for sustaining athletic careers.
Navigating Shoe Choices
The right footwear plays a pivotal role in foot health, performance, and the prevention of injuries. Many athletes benefit from switching to shoes that offer wider toe boxes, which allow the foot to spread and function properly rather than being constricted. Custom-fit shoes are becoming more available, which can drastically improve individual performance and comfort. It’s crucial for athletes to select shoes based on their unique foot structure and the specific demands of their sport.
Activating Intrinsic Foot Muscles
Strengthening the intrinsic muscles of the foot is essential for improving overall foot function and performance. Many athletes underestimate the importance of exercises that promote mobility and dexterity in their feet. Regularly incorporating foot exercises, like towel scrunches or barefoot balance training, can enhance proprioception and strength in the foot. The development of these muscles supports the foot's ability to stabilize and absorb shock, which is vital for athletic performance.
The Complexity of Foot Structure
The foot is a complex structure, comprising 26 bones, 33 joints, and numerous muscles that work together to facilitate movement. Its intricate design allows for both mobility and stability, crucial for activities that require quick changes in direction or speed. An understanding of how these components interact, particularly in the context of foot mechanics and proprioception, is vital for both injury prevention and performance enhancement. Acknowledging the foot's role in the kinetic chain highlights why optimal foot health is indispensable for athletic success.
We welcome Cressey Sports Performance chiropractor and manual therapist Dr. Ryan Hansen to the podcast to discuss all things foot and ankle. Ryan speaks to both the structure and function of the foot, with specific focus on common injuries in this region, and the impact of footwear.
A special thanks to this show’s sponsor, Marc Pro. Head to www.MarcPro.com and enter the coupon code CRESSEY at checkout to receive an exclusive discount on your order.
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