Lace Bite
Lace bite is a common injury characterized by ankle tendon irritation due to pressure from shoelaces and inadequate footwear. The increased risk of high ankle sprains highlights the importance of using proper equipment. Athletes such as figure skater Lubov Ilyushechkina and hockey player Ali Stead have all experienced lace bite.
What is Lace Bite?
Lace bite is a sharp, stabbing pain commonly experienced by ice skaters, hockey players, and roller skaters due to poorly-fitted footwear, such as shoes or skates. It develops over time from repeated irritation caused by the tongue or laces of the footwear. The condition is progressive, worsening with continued use of improper footwear. Lace bite is common among those who lace their shoes or skates higher on the ankle.
Causes:
Practicing at Maximum Intensity After a Break: Intense skating without prior use may lead to lace bites due to sudden pressure and friction on the ankles
Wearing New Skates: New skates can cause lace bites since they haven't yet adjusted to the foot's shape, leading to increased pressure and friction during use
Using Cheap or Old Skates: Skates with a flexible or non-supportive structure, often found in inexpensive or old pairs, can contribute to lace bite due to inadequate ankle support
Tying Laces Too Tightly: Tight laces can lead to lace bite by increasing pressure on the front of the ankle, leading to irritation and discomfort
Symptoms:
Tenderness or Sensitivity: Feeling pain when touched may mean increased sensitivity or irritation in the affected area
Inflammation: Redness and swelling are common signs of inflammation, suggesting a possible injury or irritation in the front part of the ankle
Possible Infection: In rare cases, redness and swelling could be signs of infection in the area
Treatment:
Resting: Taking breaks between practices to lessen constant pressure on the feet and ankles, and also allowing time to for the affected area to recover
Icing: Applying cloth-covered ice packs for 10-15 minutes to reduce irritation and pain
Pain Relievers: Using NSAIDs like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium to alleviate irritation
Some cases require adequate rest, ice, and medication. Untreated wounds from lace bites may lead to infections. Once the condition improves, preventative measures are recommended to avoid the injury from happening again.
Prevention:
Different Lacing Techniques: Exploring different lacing methods can alleviate pressure on the ankle
Adjusting Tightness: Experiment with the tightness of skates or shoes, avoiding excessive tightness that can lead to lace bites
Protective Wear: Consider protective gear like ankle sleeves or pads to act as a barrier between the foot and the skate
Gradual Break-in: Gradually break in new shoes or skates by wearing them for a portion of practice and switching back to old footwear until they are fully adjusted
Investing in Quality Footwear: Purchasing high-quality, supportive skates or shoes, since they can provide the necessary support to the ankles
Conclusion:
Lace bite is a very common injury among athletes who wear skates. Consult with a primary care doctor, sports medicine doctor, or athletic trainer if conventional treatments and preventive measures do not alleviate lace bite. While lace bite is considered more of a chronic issue than a severe injury, athletes wearing cleats and skates are cautioned about the increased risk of high ankle sprains. The importance of wearing proper equipment to prevent injuries is emphasized, and individuals experiencing persistent symptoms are advised to consult with a doctor for further guidance in order to receive treatment and be educated on preventative measures.
Sources:
Nall, Rachel. “Lace Bite: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms, Treatment.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 9 Dec. 2019, https://www.healthline.com/health/lace-bite#see-a-doctor. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024.
Tammy. “What Is Lace Bite & How to Prevent It.” Silipos, 10 May 2023,
https://silipos.com/what-is-lace-bite-how-to-prevent-it/. Accessed 18 Feb. 2024.