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Introduction
It’s never a bad time to take up a new healthy hobby, but if you’re looking at starting running, make sure you read through this blog first! California has no shortage of beautiful views and running trails to stay fit or to destress – it’s a great sport! However, running can be tough on our muscles and joints, especially on your feet. That said, foot pain from running is typically abnormal if you’re doing it all right. Being an avid athlete shouldn’t have to go hand-in-hand with pain!
Here are 3 common mistakes beginner runners make.
Avoid them to avoid unneeded foot pain:
- Starting without stretching: Stretching before any athletic event is a must to avoid injury. For running, stretching your calf, foot, and ankle muscles will allow them to function their best. Stretching improves your gait while you’re in stride and prevents any pains after your workout. It also helps to improve your running form and posture! For best results, stretch at least 5 minutes both before and after running. Don’t forget to warm up to get your circulation going too.
- Too much too soon: Whether you’re a brand-new runner testing your limits, or prepping for a race that’s coming up on your calendar, pushing yourself too hard is always a dangerous possibility. New runners’ muscles and joints need time to adjust and build up endurance. If you overestimate your endurance-level, your feet and ankles can endure some serious injuries. It’s best to start slow and escalate at a reasonable pace. Work with a trainer or a seasoned runner for tips, and keep a journal to monitor your pace over time.
- Choosing the wrong shoes: Many new runners go directly for fashionable, sleek-looking shoes that – while attractive – might not offer the best support or fit. Also common is when runners pick the sport up again after a long hiatus and slip on their old, worn-out running shoes. Running shoes need solid support with ample padding in the heel and toe areas. Talk to an expert at a sporting goods store to get the right fit.
How Can Precision Foot and Ankle Centers Help?
Sometimes, even with these precautions, you may suffer an injury, in which case you should schedule an appointment with our expert podiatrists at Precision Foot and Ankle Centers. Dr. Eric M. Feit and his team of foot care specialists can not only help with running injury prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, but can also assess and improve your foot and ankle health. For example, we have state-of-the-art technologies to create custom orthotics to give you proper support for optimal performance. Contact any of our LA county offices in Los Angeles, San Pedro, and Torrance, CA today!
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