Can Running Damage Your Feet?

Spring has finally arrived, bringing with it warmer weather and a strong feeling of fresh optimism! With the air still nice and crisp, it’s the perfect time of year to get yourself outside and go for a run. However, keep in mind that you’ll need to keep your feet protected from injury, should you choose to pay your local track a visit. The repetitive pounding motion on your feet while running can often take a toll and cause plenty of stress in your lower extremities. With that being said, it’s no surprise that it can even create injury and pain for your feet. Those who enjoy going for long runs know that they often have a love-hate relationship with the exercise. With that being said, it’s no surprise that it may incite injury and cause pain in your feet. Those who enjoy going for long runs can and may experience pain, swelling, and eventual soreness if an injury begins to develop. Here are some common runner’s injuries to look out for: 

• Plantar Fasciitis – This injury is known for causing sharp or stabbing pain on the bottom of your foot.
• Stress Fractures – Slow-building issue that becomes painful at any sudden moment.
• Extensor Tendonitis – This can create inflammation in the tendons in your foot and causes pain similar to a fracture.
• Achilles Tendinitis – Pain in the back of the heel with some burning up into the lower leg, likely the result of an inflamed Achilles tendon.

Thankfully, runners can help protect their feet by implementing protective measures to keep their feet safe and healthy. The first is to make sure you are wearing properly fitting shoes. Poor-fitting shoes can lead to a plethora of problems such as blisters, calluses, sprains, and fractures. Many people opt for a more supportive shoe with arch support, depending on the shape for their foot.

Other’s find custom orthotics to be extraordinarily helpful and offer a greater amount of foot support that is tailored specifically for their feet. So pay attention to your feet and see what type of running shoe is right for you. Another way you can help prevent injury is by incorporating various stretching techniques. Stretching as part of your daily routine can help prevent injury and even improve performance while running. Aside from this, increased flexibility is known to benefit all athletes in some capacity.

Allowing foot injuries to hinder your love for running through the town can be bothersome, don’t settle for the pain! Contact us at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York to see how we can help you prevent and treat any injuries you obtain from going on your regular jog.