Hockey is a fast-paced, high-impact sport that demands agility and powerful lower-body strength. While the focus is often on stick handling and skating performance, the feet and ankles play a critical role in every stride, stop, and turn. At the same time, the unique combination of rigid skates, hard playing surfaces, and frequent physical contact places hockey players at increased risk for foot and ankle injuries.

Orlin & Cohen’s Penelope Zaverdas, DPT, is here to help you understand why these injuries happen, and how to recognize and prevent them, so players stay on the ice and perform at their best.

Why Hockey Players Are Prone to Foot & Ankle Injuries

Unlike many other sports, hockey requires athletes to perform in stiff, tightly laced skate boots. While these boots provide support and protection, they also create constant pressure on the foot and limit natural movement. Over time, this combination can lead to irritation, inflammation, and overuse injuries.

At the same time, hockey involves repetitive skating motions that place stress on the ankles and feet. Quick direction changes, powerful push-offs, and sudden stops all require precise control and stability. When combined with long hours on the ice, these repetitive forces can increase the risk of both acute injuries and chronic conditions.

How playing surface and player collisions increase injury risk

The ice surface itself adds another layer of complexity. Players are constantly moving at high speed on a low-friction surface, increasing the likelihood of falls and awkward landings. Collisions can lead to direct trauma, including sprains and fractures.

Additionally, hockey players are frequently exposed to high-velocity impacts from pucks and sticks. Even with protective equipment, certain areas of the foot and ankle remain vulnerable, making contusions and more serious injuries a common occurrence.

Most Common Foot & Ankle Injuries in Hockey Players

Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are among the most common injuries in hockey, particularly high ankle sprains that affect the ligaments connecting the lower leg bones. These injuries often occur when the foot is forced into an awkward position during a fall or collision. High ankle sprains can be more severe than typical sprains and may significantly impact a player’s ability to skate.

Lace bite (extensor tendonitis)

Lace bite is a well-known issue among hockey players. Medically referred to as extensor tendonitis, it develops when the tendons on the top of the foot become irritated by pressure and friction from tight or poorly fitting skates. Players often notice pain, swelling, and tenderness across the top of the foot, especially during skating or when tightening laces.

Skate bursitis and heel pain

Constant pressure from the skate boot can also lead to inflammation of the soft tissues around the heel and ankle. This can result in bursitis or persistent heel pain, making it uncomfortable to skate or even walk in skates. Over time, these conditions can worsen if not addressed properly.

Signs and Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

While some discomfort may be expected during a demanding season, certain symptoms should not be overlooked.

• Persistent pain, swelling, or tenderness in the foot or ankle may indicate an underlying issue.
• Difficulty pushing off the ice, turning, or stopping can signal instability or ligament injury.

Players should also pay attention to pain that worsens with activity, bruising from direct impact, or any sensation of weakness or limited mobility. Ignoring these warning signs can lead to more serious injuries and longer recovery times.

Recovery Timeline for Hockey Players

Recovery from foot and ankle injuries varies with the severity of the injury. Minor issues such as mild tendon irritation or bruising may improve within a few days to weeks with rest and proper care. More significant injuries, such as high ankle sprains or fractures, can require several weeks or even months of recovery.

A structured rehabilitation program is often essential for returning to play safely. Physical therapy focuses on restoring strength, improving flexibility, and rebuilding stability to ensure the athlete can perform at full capacity without increased risk of reinjury.

Preventing Foot & Ankle Injuries on the Ice

Prevention begins with proper equipment and awareness. Ensuring that skates fit correctly and are laced appropriately can help reduce pressure points and minimize irritation. Players should also incorporate strength and mobility exercises into their routine to support the muscles and joints that stabilize the foot and ankle.

Listening to your body is equally important. Addressing discomfort early, rather than pushing through pain, can prevent minor issues from developing into more serious injuries. Maintaining good technique and avoiding overtraining can also help reduce the risk of injury.

When to See Our Foot and Ankle Specialist​

If foot or ankle pain persists, worsens, or begins to interfere with your ability to skate or perform daily activities, it’s important to see an orthopedic specialist. Injuries such as high ankle sprains, fractures, or chronic tendon irritation require accurate diagnosis and a targeted treatment plan.

At Orlin & Cohen, our fellowship-trained foot and ankle specialists understand the unique demands of hockey and other high-impact sports. Book an appointment today. Whether you’re dealing with a nagging issue or a more serious injury, our team can provide expert care to help you recover safely and return to the ice with confidence.