FRIDAY, July 30, 2004 (HealthDayNews) -- More elite athletes are suffering serious foot injuries, claims a study presented July 30 at the annual summer meeting of the American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society in Seattle.
These include potentially career-ending Lisfranc (midfoot) injuries, which are often misdiagnosed as sprains. Lisfranc injury refers to the rupture of a key ligament connecting the midfoot to the forefoot. In many cases, aggressive surgical repair is needed for athletes to return to their sports, the study found.
"Injuries of the foot are increasing among elite athletes while all other injuries are decreasing," senior author Dr. Robert Anderson said in a prepared statement.
"Lisfranc injuries in particular are a concern because they are often misdiagnosed as sprains. Physicians need to be aware that any midfoot injury is potentially serious and aggressive treatment may be needed," Anderson said.
He said three factors are responsible for the increase in foot injuries among elite athletes. These athletes are physically stronger, bigger, and faster than previous generations of athletes. That means their feet have to cope with increased forces.
Elite athletes also now wear lighter weight shoes to help them run faster, and changes in playing surfaces are another factor.
More information
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons has more about Lisfranc (midfoot) injuries.
