Run Far and Wide

People usually run to improve their health. Unfortunately, what they don't realize is that running can harm your feet. When we run, we expose our feet to impacts of over a hundred tons, depending on how long you choose to move. Over time, that creates long-lasting issues and can affect your mobility. To avoid these issues, you can follow simple steps to ensure your feet are healthy.

How to Keep Your Feet in Peak Running Condition

• Keep your feet dry-if you run with sweaty feet, and you will be prone to fungal infections and blisters. Over time the bacteria can lead to Athlete's foot. Make sure that you wear socks made to absorb the sweat and avoid cotton.

• Stretch first-stretching will save you from strain on your joints and tendons.

• Walk-in between running-to reduce the amount of impact placed upon your feet; switch between walking and running. Walking causes less shock to your feet, ensuring you avoid any issues.

• Warm-up first-you should never go running unless you have walked for at least ten minutes first. That will prevent injuries.

• Don’t push yourself too hard-start slowly and build your endurance over time. That will help you avoid foot pain and muscle injuries.

• Try to run on dirt-dirt is the best surface to run on because it absorbs the impact of asphalt and concrete.

• Stop-if you feel pain in your feet as you run, you need to stop. Pain comes from your body telling you that something is wrong. If you continue to push harder when you are experiencing pain, you can cause a significant injury to your feet and ankles.

Running is fun and not meant to be painful. If you find that running is causing you problems, see a podiatrist right away. There are solutions that will ensure you can keep doing what you love without experiencing any downsides.

For help with running pain and sporting injuries, James C. Ricketti, DPM of Hamilton Square, NJ, is a board-certified podiatrist that can heal any diseases and deformities. Dr. Ricketti and his staff will have your feet looking great and feeling even better. Call 609-587-1674 to get help today.