Working With Your Podiatrist

Working With Your Podiatrist

Put Your Foot Down! Understanding And Preventing 2 Common Conditions That Affect Runner's Feet

Lillian Kelley

From an increase in endorphins and improved mood to cardiovascular health and weight loss, the benefits of running are easy to see. Unfortunately, the added pressure on the feet while running can injure the foot, causing pain and discomfort. In many cases, these injuries can prevent you from running in the future, which will affect your physical and emotional health and wellness. If you are a runner, use this guide to understand these common foot conditions and how to prevent them.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar Fasciitis is one of the most common conditions a runner will face. Excessive contact with the bottom of the foot through constant overuse or improperly soled footwear can cause this painful inflammation that begins at the heel and spreads through the entire arch.

Many people with Plantar Fasciitis compare this painful condition to stepping on a nail heel first. This pain not only affects your feet while running, but it will also cause discomfort while resting. Due to this pain, it is important to stay off your feet until a podiatrist can evaluate the problem.

If your doctor determines you have the condition, orthotics and stability shoes will be recommended to treat the pain. Ice packs are also helpful for easing the pain and inflammation. Each day, consider placing a tennis ball on the bottom of your foot and roll it around with the arch. This will improve blood circulation through the foot, which can ease inflammation and decrease your pain.

To prevent Plantar Fasciitis, make sure to wear good shoes while running. Consult a podiatrist or shoe specialist to determine which type of running shoes is best for your feet. Also, consider running on softer surfaces only. This will alleviate pressure on the bottom of your foot.

Blisters

Blisters may not seem like a serious problem, but these fluid-filled bumps and tears of the skin on your feet can become inflamed and very painful.

Excessive contact between the sock or shoe and your foot can cause blisters to form on the fit. Running with multiple blisters is possible, but the pockets of pus will usually burst, causing even further contact to the skin. Without treating the blister, the area can become infected.

If you have large blisters, consider having your doctor drain them. You can also drain the blister on your own. Be sure your hands are clean before making contact with the blister. Wipe a needle down with rubbing alcohol and carefully place the head into the blister to pop it. Allow the fluid to drain. Cover the blister with a bandage after it drains completely.

Smaller blisters should be left to heal on their own. If you have multiple small blisters that are causing you pain and discomfort, consult a doctor to determine the best course of treatment.

Prevention is your best weapon, though. Here are a few tips to prevent blisters while running:

  • Wear shoes and socks that fit properly. Make sure to have a thumb's width of space between the end of your toes and the end of the toe box of your shoes. Your socks should fit well, too, leaving no extra fabric hanging from the toes.
  • Moisturize your feet daily, reducing the risk of dry skin that can make your feet more prone to blisters. Use regular lotion or coat your feet in petroleum jelly to reduce any friction.

Your feet are imperative parts of your life, but most people do not place enough energy on keeping them healthy and strong. Use this guide to understand and prevent a few common foot conditions, so you can continue running for exercise, fun, and relaxation.


Share

2023© Working With Your Podiatrist
About Me
Working With Your Podiatrist

When you have an ingrown toenail, it can be tempting to take care of the problem on your own. Armed with a set of tweezers and some nail clippers, you might be ready to get in there and take care of business. Unfortunately, a few missteps could lead to a serious infection. I have made this mistake myself, and it almost cost me my toe. I hope that as you evaluate your own foot problems that you will remember how valuable a podiatrist can be. Your foot doctor can inspect your problem and recommend the proper course of action. Read through my website to learn more.