The rains may be refreshing, but wet roads, mossy tiles, uneven pavements, and muddy paths have turned routine walks into risky ventures. Dr. Shyam Thakkar, Consultant Orthopedic Surgeon and Foot & Ankle Reconstruction Specialist at Apollo Spectra, Pune, shared his observations:
“Since the rains began, we’ve seen a 30% surge in foot and ankle injuries among people aged 25 to 65. Most injuries occur due to slips or missteps on slippery sidewalks, pothole-filled roads, or from wearing improper footwear.”
Ankle twists, in particular, are common when the foot suddenly turns inward or outward, stretching or tearing the ligaments. “Left untreated, these injuries not only cause pain but also hinder mobility and make everyday activities like walking extremely difficult,” he warned.
Severity Can Vary—But Risks Are Real
Dr. Thakkar noted a wide range of injuries, from mild sprains to severe fractures. “Even young adults have required surgery after slipping on wet stairs or muddy roads. While many cases recover well with rest, immobilization, and physiotherapy, delayed treatment may lead to complications or require surgery.”
As per the press release, for recurring sprains, he advised seeking help from a Foot & Ankle Specialist. “Today, most surgical procedures are minimally invasive keyhole surgeries, which offer faster recovery, minimal pain, and less blood loss compared to traditional open surgeries. But if left untreated, these injuries may progress to arthritis at a younger age,” he cautioned.