Boot produces sores and bruises on both sides.

Question
Hi Pat, I've just buy today my Inline skates and went to central park. I've use to skate many years ago so I have an idea of the sport but my problem now is that the pain on both sides of my legs is unbearable. I have bruises and sore just above my ankle were the boot end. the problem I guess is my flat foot, so my feet goes inward and the boot hit me on the sides. Is there anything I can do for this, while I'm skating my feet are so prone that sometimes I think the wheels are going to broke...

Thanks.
Laura

Answer
Hi Laura,
  The problem is not that your feet are flat the problem is that you're not standing correctly on your skates.  Because your allowing your ankles turn in, it's causing the boot to dig into your ankles.

   You must try to keep the wheels up straight.  I would suggest you try keeping your feet closer together, that should allow you to keep the wheels straight instead of your ankles turning inward.  If this does not help, you may need a boot with more support.

   If you have a local roller rink, go and take some classes.  The teachers can show you how to correct the problem.  Once you've corrected it, the pain should go away.

  Inlines are a little harder to skate on than roller skates are so you have to really make an effort to now allow your ankles to turn in.  Take your time and focus on keeping the wheels straight up.  If you do it enough it will become a habit and you won't have to worry about it anymore.

   Good Luck and if I can help with anything further, just write me again.

Pat