Footy
Background and how injuries happen
Australian football involves high speed running, sprinting, jumping, tackling and sudden changes of direction. Players regularly accelerate, decelerate and pivot while competing for the ball, placing considerable stress on the feet, ankles and lower limbs.
The combination of physical contact, repetitive running and high impact movements makes footy players vulnerable to both acute injuries and overuse conditions.
Common factors contributing to footy related injuries include:
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Repeated sprinting and running, placing stress on the calves and Achilles tendon.
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Sudden changes of direction, increasing the risk of ankle sprains.
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Jumping, landing and tackling, placing stress on the feet and joints.
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Repetitive running on hard or uneven playing surfaces.
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Tight fitting football boots and stud pressure, contributing to forefoot irritation.
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Sudden increases in training intensity and matches.
Common injuries we see in footy
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Ankle sprains caused by rolling the ankle during tackles, landings or sudden direction changes.
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Plantar fasciitis, which is pain underneath the heel or along the arch, often worse with the first steps in the morning or after rest.
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Shin splints associated with repetitive running and increased training loads.
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Achilles tendinopathy involving pain and stiffness in the Achilles tendon caused by repetitive running, jumping and sprinting.
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Turf toe, which is Injury to the big toe joint caused by excessive bending or jamming of the toe, often during push off or sudden changes in direction.
How we can help
At Aligna Podiatry, we assess how your feet, ankles and lower limbs respond to the physical demands of football, helping identify the cause of your pain and support your return to play.
Your initial consultation includes:
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Biomechanical assessment: Evaluating foot posture, joint movement and lower limb alignment.
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Gait and movement analysis: Assessing how your feet and legs absorb force during walking and running.
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Footwear assessment: Reviewing your football boots, studs and playing surface.
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Training load assessment: Understanding your match schedule, training intensity and recovery.
Your personalised treatment plan may include:
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Hands on therapy and joint mobilisation.
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High-power laser therapy and shockwave therapy where appropriate.
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Strengthening and rehabilitation exercises.
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Balance, stability and movement training.
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Taping and footwear recommendations.
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Custom orthotics where clinically indicated.
Prevention and self care
Help keep yourself on the field by:
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Warming up properly before training and matches.
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Maintaining calf, ankle and foot strength.
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Gradually increasing running and training loads.
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Wearing football boots suited to your foot shape and playing surface.
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Allowing adequate recovery between matches.
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Addressing early signs of heel, shin or Achilles pain before they become persistent.
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Book your appointment in Balwyn North