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ASK MR. EDGE
March 2005
Mr. Edge is a qualified skate technician with years and years of experience. He can answer your questions on boots, blades and foot problems related to your equipment. Questions will be answered in SKATING magazine and later posted on the web site.
Well skaters, it's that time again. With spring just around the corner and the season nearly completed, not much is happening in the industry right now. So, let's move right into your questions.
I have been skating for more than 10 years. After
lacing my skates tightly across my insteps for so long
I developed a cyst underneath the tendons of my instep on one foot, damaged my nerves (which had to be cut away), and damaged muscles beyond repair (which were cut away and re-sectioned).
I'm now left with a nasty scar as well as related nerve damage ranging from my big toe (base) up to the incision on my instep. Help! How can I break in my new boots without too much pain?
Linda, Maryland
Before I answer this question, I think it is important to look at the probable cause of your problem. From what you have described, I would say that your previous boot had too much support for your level of skating and did not fit properly around the ankle and instep area. This caused the tongue of your boot to break down very badly, creating a shelf-like crease that would fold into your instep every time you would land a jump or bend your knee in any manner. Remember, the uppers of the boots are supposed to be creasing, and not only the tongues.
Now for the fix – first, I would double check with the manufacturer and see how much support was built into your new boots. You'll probably want to have it reduced somewhat, but maybe not. Secondly, you should probably check to see if you are a candidate for an orthotic. Lastly, you should make some sort of a doughnut hole cut on the tongue so as to help lift the tongue off the injury site.
Is it normal for your feet to be so cold when you're skating that you can't even feel them? If not, what can I do to prevent this?
Melissa, 11, Madison, Wis.
Well Melissa, I would suggest you buy a new pair of skates that fit you. Sorry to say, but you've finally grown out of your current ones.
The seam on the back of my boot is splitting, and I'm afraid that if it splits any more, I'll end up with an ankle injury. I would take it to a shoe repair store, but the same thing happened to my last skates (which happened to be a different brand) and they did a poor job of fixing them. Do I really need new skates?
Rachel, Washington
Well my dear, this is odd that it would happen to two pairs of skates, even though they are different. I've only seen this happen to either very old single-lined leather boots or those made of vinyl and not leather. No matter, if they are really good leather boots, I would suggest you contact the manufacturer via e-mail and ask for their advice.
P.S. – I hope you're not putting on your skates like most kids try to put on their tennis shoes.
My coach has been complaining that when I do crossovers I make a scratching sound with my toe picks. I bought new boots and blades a couple months ago. Could this scratching sound be because I now have a larger toe pick?
Becky, Missouri
Yes! End of story. Take note of your technique and be sure that you are not leaning too far forward. Also try arching your back a bit more.
Well skating fans, it's again time to close out yet another column of Ask Mr. Edge. Everyone take care now, and please take off your guards before stepping onto the ice. Happy skating!
Mr. Edge and all related elements are property of Arena Sports & Consulting Services, Inc. ©2013. Send your questions to Mr. Edge via mail (Ask Mr. Edge, SKATING magazine, 20 First Street, Colorado Springs, CO 80906); FAX (719) 635-9548 or e-mail them online.
The opinions of Mr. Edge are his own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the U.S. Figure Skating or SKATING magazine. Remember, if you have problems with your feet, check with a doctor – the problem may very well be with your boot, but it could be more serious. Check with your local pro shop for more information about boots and blades.
