Popularised in the 2009 Drew Barrymore film , Whip It , roller derby is one of the fastest growing sports for women worldwide - particularly in the US .
Author
- Benjamin Bullen
Lecturer in Podiatric Medicine, University of Galway
While this roller speed-skating competition was originally established as a marathon race in the 1930s, the modern, kick-ass , punk-inspired , version began in the early 2000s .
Players wear four-wheeled "quad" roller skates and mandatory protective equipment, including a helmet, mouth and wrist guards and elbow and knee pads - but foot injuries are common . These often include bruising, torn ligaments, broken bones and toenail injuries - like the one featured in the image below.
Since roller derby is a growing sport, podiatrists like me will likely see more foot injuries from players, including bruising under the toenails and lost nails. Lost toenails are a common injury among these athletes due to the frequent quick turns and stops required during events.
Many roller derby athletes wear tight skates to improve responsiveness during quick turns and stops. Loose fitting boots can also increase the risk of ankle injuries , such as sprained or torn ligaments and broken ankle and foot bones.
Under pressure
It is not at all uncommon for people to have one foot longer than the other , which will increase pressure in the roller skate, particularly on the big toenail. Silicone toe protectors can be worn to reduce this pressure; however, they may also reduce the amount of available room in the toebox - front of the shoe.
Appropriate roller skate fit is essential to prevent such nail injuries and, much like other sports, shoes that are too short or too long may lead to recurring nail issues, such as " runner's toe " - also known as a subungual hematoma - a painful, blackened toenail caused by repeated trauma.
Skates with a deeper and wider toebox may reduce the likelihood of injury. The front of the shoe may also be "punched-out" following gentle warming of the material. This can be achieved professionally with the assistance of special stretchers. In keeping with the "do-it-yourself" ethos of roller derby, though, skaters may use the rounded end of a broom handle to gently stretch the shoes over the big toenail area.
In addition, loose roller skate laces leave the ankle unstable and more likely to roll, leading to strains, sprains and even broken bones. Firm lacing secures the foot firmly within the roller skate, also reducing the potential for friction and the foot sliding forward within the roller skate, avoiding nail trauma.
Foot injury prevention
As a podiatrist, I advise patients to use protective dressings before playing sport, wear cushioning socks to absorb some of the force, and keep toe nails short with regular trimming. Some roller derby athletes have been known to apply superglue or nail glue to re-attach lifted nails - but this practice is not advised. Supergluing lost nails could cause lead to irritation, infection and further injury.
Keeping nails short and ensuring good roller skate fit and firm lacing are essential to prevent foot, ankle and toenail injuries. Whether a roller derby player or not, if you do experience foot and ankle issues, why not visit your friendly local podiatrist?
Later, skater.
Benjamin Bullen does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
