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Foot Problems for Runners - Tips to Keep You Running

Today there are many people who have taken up running or jogging as a way to keep fit.  There are also those who run for fun and to compete in races and marathons. There are many benefits to running, it helps to improve your cardio vascular health, can help you lose weight or maintain your weight, it helps with bone health, it also improves your mood and aids in coordination. But, as with most things it also has some negative affects as well, one those being foot problems for runners.

There are many sorts of foot problems for runners that can adversely affect one’s ability or desire to continue running.  Some of the more common problems that runners experience with their feet are things such as heel pain, Achilles tendonitis, stress fractures, ankle sprains, blisters, foot and toenail fungus among others. Any of these conditions can cause one to lose some of their desire to continue to pursue their hobby or form of exercise.

There are ways one can alleviate the discomfort that some of the foot problems for runners cause.  Heel pain and Achilles tendonitis are two of the most common foot problems for runners.  These can be treated by resting, using ice and gentle stretching of the troubled area. Since stress fractures are an incomplete break of the bone, they usually require the help of a physician and may require the wearing of a surgical shoe for a bit.  Ankle sprains vary in their intensity. An ace bandage may be all that is needed for a mild sprain, whereas more serious sprains will need a physician’s care.

Blisters are common foot problems for runners and the best treatment is prevention. Using an anti-chafe stick to prevent blisters in an area of high friction works well as it can reduce friction by creating a barrier around your skin. Another way to prevent blisters is by placing moleskin on an area of high friction. Foot and toenail fungus are also quite common, although foot fungus is more of an annoyance than being painful, nail fungus can be painful.  Prevention is the best way to handle these as well.  Keeping your feet as dry as possible, and making sure your socks and shoes fit will also help.  If you do get toenail fungus there are several anti-nail fungal solutions that will help in treating it.

By following the tips above, the normal foot problems for runners should not cause one much worry, which keeps a person on the “run” and that is what most runners prefer.