Uploaded February 2026 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
With spring sports gearing up, St. Louis Children’s Hospital physical therapist Gabrielle Griffin, PT, DPT, discusses how choosing the right soccer cleat can make a significant difference in preventing foot and ankle injuries in young athletes.
• A proper fit can prevent unnecessary movement within the shoe, reducing the risk of ankle injury.
• Dynamic fit collars, compression bands, or high-top designs offer additional ankle support.
• Choose cleats with a stable sole plate and good traction to prevent slipping.
• Comfortable cleats with adequate cushioning can reduce strain on ankles during play.
• Select cleats appropriate for playing surface: firm ground, soft ground, or artificial turf.
• Break in new cleats gradually to minimize the risk of blisters or discomfort.
When your child has a sprain, strain, jam, or minor fracture, visit one of four Orthopedic Injury Clinic locations for a same-day appointment. You’ll receive immediate care from WashU Medicine orthopedic specialists, including on-site X-ray, splinting, and casting. We treat kids ages 5 and up.
Need help finding a pediatrician? We’re here to assist. Learn more about what factors to consider when choosing a provider: stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/find-a-pediatrician
Visit our website for more MomDocs tips: stlouischildrens.org/health-resources/pulse?categories%5BMom%20Docs%5D=Mom%20Docs
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: bit.ly/2vHvSCw
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/stlchildrens
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/stlchildrens
The St. Louis Children’s Hospital YouTube station is intended as a reference and information source only. If you suspect you have a health problem, you should seek immediate care with the appropriate health care professionals. The information on this website is not a substitute for professional care, and must not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. For help finding a doctor, St. Louis Children's Hospital Answer Line may be of assistance at 314.454.KIDS (5437). The opinions expressed in these videos are those of the individual writers, not necessarily St. Louis Children's Hospital or Washington University School of Medicine. BJC HealthCare and Washington University School of Medicine assume no liability for the information contained in this website or for its use.
With spring sports gearing up, St. Louis Children’s Hospital physical therapist Gabrielle Griffin, PT, DPT, discusses how choosing the right soccer cleat can make a significant difference in preventing foot and ankle injuries in young athletes.
• A proper fit can prevent unnecessary movement within the shoe, reducing the risk of ankle injury.
• Dynamic fit collars, compression bands, or high-top designs offer additional ankle support.
• Choose cleats with a stable sole plate and good traction to prevent slipping.
• Comfortable cleats with adequate cushioning can reduce strain on ankles during play.
• Select cleats appropriate for playing surface: firm ground, soft ground, or artificial turf.
• Break in new cleats gradually to minimize the risk of blisters or discomfort.
When your child has a sprain, strain, jam, or minor fracture, visit one of four Orthopedic Injury Clinic locations for a same-day appointment. You’ll receive immediate care from WashU Medicine orthopedic specialists, including on-site X-ray, splinting, and casting. We treat kids ages 5 and up.
Need help finding a pediatrician? We’re here to assist. Learn more about what factors to consider when choosing a provider: stlouischildrens.org/conditions-treatments/find-a-pediatrician
Visit our website for more MomDocs tips: stlouischildrens.org/health-resources/pulse?categories%5BMom%20Docs%5D=Mom%20Docs
Subscribe to our YouTube channel: bit.ly/2vHvSCw
Like us on Facebook: facebook.com/stlchildrens
Follow us on Instagram: instagram.com/stlchildrens
The St. Louis Children’s Hospital YouTube station is intended as a reference and information source only. If you suspect you have a health problem, you should seek immediate care with the appropriate health care professionals. The information on this website is not a substitute for professional care, and must not be used for self-diagnosis or treatment. For help finding a doctor, St. Louis Children's Hospital Answer Line may be of assistance at 314.454.KIDS (5437). The opinions expressed in these videos are those of the individual writers, not necessarily St. Louis Children's Hospital or Washington University School of Medicine. BJC HealthCare and Washington University School of Medicine assume no liability for the information contained in this website or for its use.
