Hey Runners, Add This to Your To-Do List

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If you’re a serious runner, you’ve got a rhythm going in more ways than one. There’s the rhythm and pace of your actual runs, but there’s also the stuff you repeatedly do as a regular part of your sport. Some things on your runner’s to-do list might include reading articles about running, watching what you eat, carefully planning your daily protein and carb intake, and combing the internet to sign up for your next great race.

Here’s one more thing we strongly suggest that you add to your routine: Do everything within your power to keep your feet as healthy as possible.

Foot care for runners

Running can be hard on your whole body, but it’s your feet that absorb the force of every single stride. The difference between a really nice run and a really wretched one just might be the condition of your feet. So take these steps to ensure that your feet are up to the job you demand of them:

  • Keep track of your mileage.
  • Running shoes don’t last forever so you need to keep a close eye on replacing them in a timely manner. Experts say you should use them only for running and replace them somewhere between 200-400 miles.
  • Pay attention to how your shoes are wearing down.
  • Depending on how your body is put together and what part of your foot you land on first, your shoes are going to wear out differently. That’s the reason behind the mileage range above. When your shoe is worn down anywhere, it’s time to replace them.
  • Visit a podiatrist once a year. Our board-certified podiatrists, Dr. Samantha Boyd, Dr. Hal Ornstein, and Dr. Joseph Saka can evaluate any pain you have and fix you up when you fracture a bone. But we’re keenly interested in preventative medicine as well. Make an appointment with us annually and we’ll help prevent problems by figuring out if your shoes need replacing, if your gait has changed, or if you could benefit from a custom orthotic.

Monmouth County runners can easily check “proper foot care” off their list by visiting Affiliated Foot & Ankle Center for expert advice. We’re runners, too, and are eager to keep your feet in the game. Call us at (732) 905-1110. You can also click here to make an appointment online at either of our two offices in Howell and Jackson, New Jersey.