It is easy to take running for granted. After all, we learned to run at an early age with little or no training. But as an adult, taking up running for fitness, as a sport, or even as a challenge, requires training and taking precautions. Running a 10K, for instance, can cause a great deal of pain and possible injury if you are not prepared. The following are a few ways to keep your feet and body safe when you take up running. First, get a pair of running shoes that fit properly and provide the cushioning needed to protect your feet from injury. Find socks that wick sweat and help prevent blisters. Tend to any blisters carefully, seeking help from a podiatrist if necessary. Embark on a training plan that begins slowly and builds gradually in time, distance, and speed. Train consistently, rather than leaving long gaps between runs. Make sure you eat healthy foods, boosting the carbohydrates before a run to give you the fuel you will need. Drink lots of water to avoid becoming dehydrated. Pay attention to calluses and corns that may form. It is suggested to check with a podiatrist to see if they can be prevented with orthotics. Podiatrists can also help to address any other toe, foot, or ankle problems that may have developed. 

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 one of our podiatrists of Gerber Podiatry Clinic. Our doctors 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 office located in Evanston, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.