While running is great exercise, it places extra stress on your feet. Due to this excess of pressure, running injuries are rather common. There are many bones and joints in your feet, meaning that there are more chances for injury. In addition, those that have flat feet, over-pronate, or have high arches have a greater tendency to experience running injuries. Two of the most common running injuries are plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia.
Plantar Fasciitis
Also known as heel pain, plantar fasciitis happens when trauma is continually placed on the foot. A thick band of tissue becomes inflamed, causing stabbing pain. Though it can range from mild to severe, plantar fasciitis is painful no matter what. For those that are suffering from a non-severe form, treatment is often simple, with icing, resting, and stretching doing the trick. If you are experiencing heel or toe pain, it is important to see a podiatrist for treatment.
Metatarsalgia
The metatarsal bones are long bones that head towards the toes. When this area is facing trauma, pain will develop between the toes. It also may feel like the balls of your feet are bruising or something is always in your shoes. This pain may show up whenever you are running, walking, or standing. Most runners do not develop this condition, unless they are training rather extensively.
Most runners have experienced some amount of trauma on their feet. However, when running legitimately causes an injury, it is not something to just “run through”. It is important to recognize and not ignore the foot pain you are experiencing. If your feet, including your heels and toes, are hurting consistently, schedule an appointment with Alpine Foot Specialists today.
Courtesy of: Sports Health