4 Common Foot Issues That Affect Runners
Running is a great activity that can be done by anyone, no matter what their fitness level. However, if you're not careful and don't do some research first, running can lead to many different foot issues. This blog post will discuss 4 common foot issues that runners may face when they run for an extended period of time without taking care of themselves. The four main topics are blisters, calluses, bunions, and plantar fasciitis.
Blisters
Blisters are an issue that can affect any runner. They are caused by many factors, the main one usually being moisture or too much friction between your skin and shoes. Blisters are usually painless, but they can also be very annoying to deal with, especially if you're running for an extended period of time or doing a challenging workout that involves continuous movement.
Most of the time, these will resolve on their own. However, If a blister is causing pain and pressure, you can find some relief by safely popping it and cleaning the area. However, it is important that you use a sterilized needle to pop it in order to prevent infection. After that, clean the area thoroughly and put an antibiotic ointment and an adhesive bandage over the affected area.
Calluses
Calluses affect runners as well and they usually develop during long-distance running or on the ball of your foot. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as shoes that aren't the right size/shape for you, too much pressure being put on one area while running (no matter what part of your feet it's happening to), bad form when running, running on uneven surfaces, etc. Calluses can be treated at home by consistently using a pumice stone after soaking your feet. If the issue persists, speak with a podiatrist.
Bunions
Another common foot issue that runners may face is bunions. Bunions are not only painful, but they can also affect your running because the joint of the big toe starts to point outward instead of being straight or following the other toes. Bunions are usually caused by wearing shoes with narrow toe boxes. The best thing to do if you think that you have bunions is go see a podiatrist or specialist in order for them to figure out the problem and how they can help correct it. This is usually done with minor surgery.
Plantar Fasciitis
Another issue that runners face is plantar fasciitis. This problem happens when the ligament in your feet that supports and holds up your arch becomes inflamed, which causes a lot of pain whenever you stand or walk for an extended period of time. This condition can be very painful, but it usually goes away after about a month if treated properly. The best way to treat plantar fasciitis is by resting, icing the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and having a stretching routine to stretch the ligaments in your feet.Running is a great way to stay active and healthy, but if you don't take care of your feet first, then it can lead to some serious problems. Four of the foot issues that runners may face include blisters, calluses, bunions, and plantar fasciitis. Properly recognizing these issues and taking care of them right away will help
