3 Foot Care Tips for Runners

Are you ready to run? We are your biggest supporters! Increase your speed and add cardio to your day. From your head to your toes, there are many benefits of running. If you choose to run indoors, on a track, or your neighborhood sidewalks, paying attention to your feet is a must. Before-and-after maintenance is an important way to reduce your risk of injury and stay in the race.

If you are looking for tips on foot care, the PediFix team has you covered.

Here are three ways to care for your feet as a runner:

1.  Remember support and cushion

Foot care becomes very challenging when your shoes are lacking support and cushion. Choose shoes that meet your needs and keep track of how many miles you have run. Remember that running shoes are in a specialized category including repeated impact in their use, so replace them promptly. Here are ways to add support:

• Ask your foot doctor about custom orthotics and the type of running shoe they’d recommend based on your feet.
• Read accredited reviews of running shoes
• Wear clean, dry socks with shoes every time

2.  Respond to foot issues promptly 

A common problem we all face is delaying treatment. Runners may sometimes delay treating their corns, calluses, and blisters. They may even try to push through heel pain, painful bunions, or ingrown toenails. While running, these foot issues may only worsen. There are usually very simple solutions to finding relief. Here are ways to respond:

• Schedule an appointment with your podiatrist
• Allow time to recover between discomfort
• Never treat problems at home or guess a diagnosis

3  Relax after you run

After you run, it’s time for pampering. Pain is not the only reason to pamper your feet. We recommend setting aside some time to stretch and rest your feet. You may decide that a day off would be best. While we often challenge ourselves during exercise, we never suggest pushing through pain or running through the discomfort. Here are ways to relax:

• Soak your feet in warm water and Epsom salt
• Massage your feet
• Stretch your feet and ankles

When you are ready to run, we will be here to support you. Keep these tips in mind: remember support and cushion; respond to foot issues promptly, and relax after a run.

We’re in the business of helping people find relief from common foot and ankle conditions. If you have questions about any of our products, please call 1-800-PEDIFIX (733-4349) to learn more. Our product specialists are ready to support your needs.