If you are a runner, then you know how much a foot injury can put you out. With a foot injury, you may not be able to run for a few weeks or possibly more. You've spent all that time building up your running stamina, only to have to work all over again to get it all back. Foot injuries are common for runners, but there are things you can do that can help prevent them and keep you from having to hang up your running shoes. Read on for helpful tips to prevent you from injuring your feet.
Wear Proper Fitting Shoes
Be sure you are wearing shoes that fit your feet properly. Your shoes should be snug enough that your feet aren't moving around freely, but they should be roomy enough that your toes can move a bit. If your shoes are too large, you could end up with blisters from your feet moving too much. If your shoes are too small, you could also risk getting blisters, but you can also end up with your toes being squished together and over time, this can create a bunion. The pain from wearing improper shoes can put you out for a few days to a few weeks. If you aren't wearing the right fit of shoes, you'll want to replace them with shoes in the correct size.
Wear The Right Type Of Shoe
Not all shoes are created equally. If you are running, you should be wearing a running shoe. If you aren't sure what type of shoe is best for your feet, you can go to your podiatrist to help you. These shoes are lighter, have extra cushion, and plenty of arch support. Over time though, these shoes can wear out, so be sure to invest in new ones often enough, especially if the soles begin to wear out, or the insoles start to wear as well.
Stretch Before Running
You should always stretch before you start running. Stretching helps to add flexibility to your muscles and ligaments, and this includes the ones in your feet. It can also help to prevent injury. Stretch your feet by pressing the ball of your foot into the wall and hold it for a minute, then repeat on the other foot. You can also stretch your ankles by rolling them in a circle about ten times one way, then ten times the other way. Do the same on your other ankle.
If you are running, you need to be sure you are doing what you can to protect your feet and to prevent injury. If you do end up with an injury, get to the podiatrist for proper treatment.
