Dr. Brian Nagy | July 7th, 2017
Posted In: Foot Problems, Running
Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply enjoy running as a leisurely activity, you know your feet can take a beating when pounding pavement. Common foot problems for runners can be an inevitable side effect, signs your body is giving you that should not be ignored. If you experience foot pain as a result of these problems and running plays an important role in your life, then it’s important that you gain a deeper understanding of why it’s best to be proactive about your feet when faced with common problems addressed in the article below.
Wearing a good pair of running sneakers that fit you properly is your first line of defense. “The proper sneaker is absolutely essential when you’re running,” Weisenfeld says. But if we’re being honest, even the most perfect pair of kicks won’t make you immune to runners’ feet. Here’s how to handle the most common issues.
Plain and simple, blisters are caused by friction. If you’re prone to them, it means your foot is moving around too much in your shoe. This could be because you’re not wearing the right size, or you’re not wearing the right socks. Weisenfeld says to look for sport-specific socks with a lot of cushioning and made with synthetic materials (not 100 percent cotton or wool “because that will absorb the moisture but not allow it to evaporate”). She recommends the running socks from Thorlo. If you get blisters in between your toes, try rubbing Vaseline in between them before slipping into your socks, or use a blister block stick like Body Glide Foot Anti Blister Balm ($7, target.com).
If a blister is tense and painful, Weisenfeld suggests draining it with a sharp, sterilized instrument. “On the roof of the blister but close to where it attaches to the skin, lance the blister so all the fluid comes out.”
If this hardened mass of skin tends to build up on your heels, it’s probably from the edge of your shoe rubbing against the back of your foot. If your callus resides on the side of your big toe, it can be from wearing too-tight shoes or your running form, Weisenfeld explains. “If you over-pronate, your arches roll inward and as that happens, you’re rolling onto the big toe when you’re pushing off.” Over time, a big ol’ callus can form.
From blisters to bunions, ingrown toenails to injuries, common foot problems for runners that are causing you pain shouldn’t be ignored or else they will only get worse. Rather than ignoring your foot pain and increasing chances of permanent damage, you may consider researching your options a bit further.
Nagy Footcare offers treatments for foot problems caused by running that can get you back on the track, trail, or treadmill in no time.
Minimally invasive surgery is a procedure done by making a very small incision directly through the skin to the bone to help correct foot problems without damaging the soft tissue.
HyProCure® places a small titanium stent in the natural space between the ankle bone and heel bone. This stent prevents the ankle bone from rolling inward and the foot from turning outward. There is no screwing or drilling involved.
The helpful staff at Nagy Footcare specialize in helping runners pursue their passion by providing dedicated and effective services to help correct common foot problems for runners. Dr. Brian Nagy, a New Hampshire podiatrist and an athlete himself, specializes in HyProCure® treatment and minimally invasive surgery and has dedicated his professional career to helping people recover from foot pain.
At Nagy Footcare, we put your feet first.
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