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Spring is right around the corner! With spring comes some warmer weather, clear blue skies and a lot more chances to get out and active! With so much to do, we'll walk you through some of the easiest ways you can get out and have fun this season along with how to prevent any common injuries we see happen during spring.
Spring Sports
Spring brings a new set of sports with it and that means kids who have been cheering on the sidelines are now lining up to get started with track, baseball and more! You might think it's no big deal to get your kids up and running at full speed, but remember during these off months, their endurance may have decreased, and clothes or shoes from last season might not fit anymore.
Take a moment to assess your kids level of experience and any changes from this year to last. Sending them off in shoes that are too small, or having your kids start a sport in full swing they aren't ready for yet can be dangerous and cause injury. You know what's best for your child.
Spring sports also bring around an amazing new opportunity for your kids to get out and active, and actually improve their strength, coordination and skill level.
Warmer Weather
Warmer weather makes us want to kick off our shoes and trade them in for some sandals or no shoes at all! While this is tempting, it's important to limit time spent barefoot or in non-supportive shoes like a flip-flop.
Your feet need support on the arch, the heel to be secured, and enough room in your toe box to move without feeling loose like your feet will slip. This allows your feet to be firmly planted underneath you with your shoes offering the proper traction and stability.
Spring in Arizona is a little different than what some would consider a normal spring, with temperatures easily over 90 degrees in March on the hottest days, its important to consider wearing breathable socks, and staying hydrated while outdoors.
Spring Training Games
A staple of the valley, spring training games offer an exciting chance to get outdoors, get some steps in and see your favorite teams take on each other while getting a chance to spend some time with your family. Spring training game seats are not always shaded, so consider a visor or hat if you are going to a daytime game. Some stadiums allow umbrellas and blankets, check before going to see what you are and aren't allowed to bring.
Make sure you are wearing supportive shoes like mentioned above, as the games can sometimes require a decent amount of walking up and down both stairs and parking lots to get to your seat.
Hiking
Hiking in Arizona is an activity that is available to you even in the heart of Phoenix. Places like the Desert Botanical Gardens, Camelback mountain, and more offer a wide variety of trails with varying degrees of difficulty so everyones skill level can be met. Make sure you bring water, sunscreen, properly fitting close-toed shoes, and a hat to keep you cool!
Hiking in Arizona also means nature and wild life is all around you, take an extra second to be aware of the nature around you and in return, you won't get harmed by it! Cacti, snakes, large rocks, and steep drops are all common sights that your feet and ankles will interact with. Give yourself time to prepare and you'll have a blast!
Foot & Ankle Specialists of Arizona are here for you, with over 5 locations across the valley, we can help you wherever you choose to get out and active. Contact us today to get the care you deserve.