As a ballet dancer, you know practicing and performing take a toll on your feet. Many dancers seek care from podiatrists to maintain their foot health. These common injuries are among those that foot specialists see in ballet performers. 

What Typical Foot Injuries Do Podiatrists See?

1. Sprained Ankles

Sprained ankles are the top traumatic injury dancers suffer. This condition may result from ankles rolling in or out, improper landing after a jump, or shoes with less-than-perfect fit. 

Podiatrists may recommend treatment including rest, ice, compression, elevation (RICE), and physical therapy. Eating nutritious foods, staying well hydrated, and building muscle strength can help you avoid injury. 

2. Stress Fractures

Overused bones can develop stress fractures, which are tiny cracks. These foot injuries might feel worse when you jump or turn. Treatment may include walking with crutches to minimize the weight on your foot or wearing a walking boot or leg brace for support. Keeping dance time to less than five hours per day can help reduce the risk of stress fractures. 

3. Calluses & Blisters

Calluses and blisters often occur when dancers experience movement and friction between the toes. These injuries can develop when pointe shoes are not fitted properly, new shoes have not been broken in, or the choreography has changed, requiring that you execute different moves. 

Overly thick calluses cause excessive pressure that irritates the surrounding skin. To relieve pain and shield the callused or blistered areas, place pads made of lambswool in your shoes. Pads of uniform thickness increase pressure, so opt for doughnut-shaped pads, which offer varying thickness, protect the area, and redistribute weight and pressure. For a treatment and prevention plan that meets your unique needs, consider consulting a podiatrist.  

Whether ballet dancing is your profession or hobby, seek care for any foot injuries at the office of​ Dr. Eric D. Trattner in Cleveland, OH. Using state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment tools, this experienced podiatrist helps patients regain and maintain good foot health. To learn more about his range of services, visit his website and call (440) 333-5350 to schedule a consultation.