AboutDr. Bruce Forciea Expertise I can handle most questions regarding sports injuries, conditioning, jumps, spins, and basic skating.
Experience Professional skating coach for 15 years. Former PSA Senior rated coach and ice show performer. Now a chiropractor and full-time college instructor in anatomy and physiology.
Organizations Human Anatomy and Physiology Society
Wisconsin Chiropractic Association
Publications Wisconsin Technical College System course in General and Advanced anatomy and physiology.
Author of Unlocking the Healing Code, a book on healing scheduled for release in December, 2007.
Education/Credentials Doctor of Chiropractic from Parker College.
B.A. Psychology Eckerd College
Awards and Honors Midwestern Novice and Junior Pairs Champion and National competitor.
Question My 7 year old started skating last year and loved the lessons and the free skating. This year, she has tried on several skates and keeps experiencing great pain in her left foot. I've bought top of the line skates that had great reviews in terms of comfort. She leaves every lesson 30 minutes early crying and stating that her foot is really hurting. This is the 2nd pair of skates she's skated in this season and still has the same complaints. Now, she wants to quit skating all together. Not sure what I should do to build up her excitement and to find skates that will work for her. She has such great potential.
Answer HI Stacey:
There are a lot of variables with regard to foot pain and skating boots. Sometimes a different brand fits better and reduces the stress points that cause pain. Other times it is simply a matter of lacing the boots differently. Remember to pull the laces tighter around the vamp and then looser as you lace up the ankle. If the boots are too tight at the ankle (or above the ankle) they will cut off the circulation and cause pain and cramping. Many of the modern boots have enough support in the ankle to warrant a loose lacing around the top. I used to tell my skaters that they should be able to fit a finger in the top to avoid cutting off the circulation. Other possible problems include friction between parts of the boot and the foot. Sometimes a good skate technician can stretch these points with a device known as a ball and ring stretcher. Other times I have recommended various pads.
I would continue to work to find a solution. Finding a coach who has experience with boots or a good skate technician should help.
