Runners often sustain foot injuries that can range from stress fractures to sprained ankles. However, there are many ways to help prevent them. The best method to implement is to warm up and stretch the feet and legs before running and to include a regular cool-down routine afterward. Second, start at a modest pace and add time and distance gradually, so your feet and the rest of your body can accommodate the changes. Third, be sure to wear shoes that are specifically designed for running, as this can help to avoid heel, ankle, and toe injuries. If you sustain such an injury while running, it’s a good idea to stop the activity until you can determine the cause and severity. Pushing through the pain can make it worse. Wrap your foot and ice it. Keep it elevated. It is a good idea to make an appointment with a podiatrist as quickly as possible for a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Charles Marchese of Manalapan Foot & Ankle. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Manalapan, NJ, and Staten Island, NY . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.