Running is a fantastic way to improve your overall health. However, the high-impact nature of the pastime can also lead to overuse injuries.

Fortunately, Advanced Foot Care of NJ is here to help! The following blog will cover expert guidance concerning prevention and management for the issues runners run into the most.

Minor Injuries

These hurt, but they can be managed and prevented with fairly straightforward methods.

Plantar fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the plantar fascia, a ligament that runs along the bottom of your foot, becomes inflamed.
- This condition can cause pain in the heel, especially when you first get out of bed in the morning.
- To prevent plantar fasciitis or manage its discomfort, consider using custom orthoticsor a night splint.
Shin splints: Shin splints are a condition in which the muscles and tendons in your lower leg become inflamed, causing pain along the shinbone.
- To prevent shin splints, start slowly and gradually increase your mileage. You should also make sure you are wearing supportive shoes.

More Serious Running Injuries

Both of the injuries below require serious intervention, and you’d do well to prevent them altogether.

Stress fractures: Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone. They can be caused by overuse or by running on hard surfaces.
- To prevent stress fractures, pay close attention to your balance and listen to your body. Tripping often leads to fractures, so don’t push past your limits for too long.
Achilles tendonitis: Achilles tendonitis is a condition in which the Achilles tendon, a tendon that connects your calf muscle to your heel bone, becomes inflamed.
- This condition can cause pain in the back of your heel and increase your chances of a rupture, which requiressurgery to mend.
- To prevent Achilles tendonitis, make sure you are stretching your calf muscles.

Running should be fun! If it’s causing you pain, it’s time to take a break and see a podiatrist.

At Advanced Foot Care of NJ, LLC, our doctor and staff look forward to resolving all of your family’s podiatric healthcare needs. We proudly serve the communities of Little Falls, Cedar Grove, Verona, Stoney Road, Sandy Hill, Albion Place, and Great Notch. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!