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Running is an excellent way to stay fit and challenge your body, but it can take a toll on your feet. Common running injuries can cause regular foot pain and leave you sidelined for weeks or longer, which is why it’s crucial to educate yourself. Recognizing injuries will ensure you rest and seek treatment, and, most importantly, take steps to prevent future incidents by improving the way you run.

A Guide to Frequent Runners’ Foot Injuries

1. Plantar Fasciitis

When you don’t use the right shoes, the bottom of your feet can become inflamed from too much pressure. Known as plantar fasciitis, this condition is accompanied by sharp foot pain at the base of the heel. It’s caused by overtraining in shoes that don’t absorb force well or provide the necessary support on hard training surfaces. To prevent it, invest in orthotic inserts from a podiatrist along with high-quality running shoes.

2. Athlete’s Foot

Not all foot injuries are muscle-, tendon-, or bone-based. Athlete’s foot—a fungus—is extremely common and the result of trapping too much sweat and moisture in tight-fitting shoes. It’s also contagious, which is why you should never go barefoot in locker rooms or gyms. The signature rash on the surface of the foot can be treated with antifungals, and keeping your feet dry while running will prevent repeat occurrence.

3. Achilles Tendinitis

foot-painSimilar to plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis occurs when unsupportive footwear places stress on the lower legs and Achilles tendons. It’s accompanied by inflammation and pain around the back of the heel. You can prevent it by stretching your legs well before running and also wearing quality running shoes. It’s wise to also strengthen the calves and lower legs to add additional support and prevent foot pain.

 

The team at Eastern CT Foot Specialists knows how important exercise is for their patients and are committed to relieving foot pain following injuries. Edward M. Tarka DPM and Ezra J. Dottino DPM provide various services, including diabetic foot care, foot surgery and treating common conditions like hammer toes and ingrown nails. Visit them online. Call (860) 887-3538 for their Norwich, CT, office or (860) 456-9593 for their North Windham location.

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