There is a common saying that your feet and ankles take the brunt of the punishment, particularly if you are a runner. Whether you are a veteran runner or just starting out, taking a foot and ankle doctor’s advice will help you become a stronger, better, and injury-proof runner.
Let’s talk about the tips a foot and ankle doctor might suggest you to avoid and prevent injury while running and maximize your running efforts and where you can go in Naples, FL, for outstanding podiatric care.
Tip #1 Wear Right and Comfortable Shoes
Running shoes are essential because wearing the wrong shoes can have a detrimental effect on your foot while running. A runner with low arches should choose running shoes that provide support under the arch and in front of the shoe, while those with high arches should opt for shoes with a softer platform and more cushion.
Tip #2 Always Stretch Before and After a Run
Always stretch your feet before and after a run to prevent foot and ankle injuries. Stretching techniques increase ankle mobility and make it easier to spread toes. It can also protect you from typical pathologies of the runner, such as tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and sprains.
Tip #3 Take Care of Your Feet
Before running, keep your feet in a tip-top position because the force you apply to your feet is much greater than normal and is more pronounced, particularly in high-performance runners. The best way to care for your feet includes:
- Wearing comfortable, water resistance, and lightweight socks
- Applying foot-specific moisturizers to prevent the formations of cracks, bleeding on the feet, and dryness of skin
- Addressing fungus if there is any
Tip #4 Avoid Toughing It Out
Runner’s injuries are common, and when you notice an injury, pause and deal with the problem instead of taking a pain reliever and continuing running. Not dealing with the injury, trying to “tough it out,” and training through it can aggravate it and bring on more problems, even if you had a minor injury.
Tip #5 Visit Your Podiatrist Regularly
Don’t wait until an injury sideline you and regularly see your foot and ankle doctor for foot and ankle evaluation. Your foot and ankle doctor will evaluate you for potential problems that your foot and ankle are prone to while running and for those problems that you might even know to exist. They will also check your running shoes for wear-and-tear and fit patterns and recommend shoes suitable for your foot.
Foot and Ankle Doctor in Naples FL
Whether you are a professional runner or newbie, visit no other than the Joint Replacement Institute at Naples, FL, for all your podiatric needs. Our board-certified podiatrist is exceptionally skilled at treating all foot and ankle conditions of runners with unparalleled outcomes.
To know more or schedule an appointment with one of our skilled foot and ankle doctor, call us today at (239) 261-2663 or fill out our convenient online appointment form.