Crofton Office

1657 Crofton Blvd, Suite 201

Crofton, MD 21114

(410) 721-4505

(410) 721-2394

Woodbridge Office

14010 Smoketown Rd., Suite 103

Woodbridge, VA 22192

(703) 583-5959

(703) 890-4970

Chantilly Office

3914 Centreville Road, Suite 200

Chantilly, VA 20151

(703) 490-5599

(703) 583-5995

Sterling Office

46440 Benedict Dr., Suite 111

Sterling, VA 20164

(703) 444-9555

Protecting Your Feet during Running Events

Marathons and 5Ks are in full swing – are your feet prepared to endure? Whether you are first time runners or long-competing veterans, foot preparation can make or break your experience. Improper care can lead to pain or injury on the day of or after the running event. Some common problems that may arise include blisters, cramping, tendon issues, toenail pain, sprained ankles, and broken bones. Foot issues can lead to further complications in our legs and make us more prone to injury than we should be.

If you have foot or ankle issues and you’d like to prepare for a running event, consult our board-certified podiatrist, Dr. Brad Toll of Crofton Podiatry. He can work with you to plan preventive measures to protect your feet and ankles during your next running event.

Prevent Issues and Protect Your Feet

Shoes: Make sure you have shoes that fit well. Shoes that are too short or narrow can cause toenail pain, bunions, and calluses. When they are too wide, it can allow for unnecessary friction, leading to blisters. In long-term races, feet will swell and you may need shoes that are up to 2 sizes larger. Also consider that shock absorbers on running shoes will be less effective after just 100 miles.

Blisters: To prevent blisters, runners can use anti-blister creams. There are other techniques of preparing the skin on the feet to make it more durable, such as using preparations containing salicylic acid, or shea butter.

Cracking skin: For those who have dry feet, running can lead to splitting and bleeding. To prevent this pain and discomfort, make sure to moisturize. Applying lotion or foot cream right after a shower can help to retain moisture.

Fungal problems: Foot fungus issues can arise when feet, shoes, and socks are not fully dried after running. Not only should you make sure everything is thoroughly dried, you should also use antiperspirant to continue to keep your feet dry from sweat. If using communal showers, use flip-flops. Finally, use anti-fungal medications to treat the itchy and red blisters that can be debilitating for runners.

Foot pampering: Runners can get pedicures to help take care of and prevent some issues related to running. Toenails will be trimmed and tough calluses, as well as dry skin will be taken care of. There is a massage component that also helps to relax and rejuvenate the feet. A regular foot massage will help with stimulating foot muscles for better recovery.

Foot Strengthening: Other than running, take time to strengthen and lengthen all parts of the foot and ankles. Strong muscles around the feet and ankles will help to prevent injuries and improve stability while running.

Most important of all, give yourself enough time to prepare your feet and ankles to have an effective and more pleasant experience in a running event!

If you have further questions and would like to discuss a plan for preparing for a running event, please schedule an appointment at our office located in Crofton, MD. We use the latest technology to offer comprehensive care.

 

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Our Locations

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Office Hours

(We have new hours as below!)

Crofton Podiatry

Monday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Tuesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Wednesday:

9:00 am-5:00 pm

Thursday:

7:30 am-3:30 pm

Friday:

By Appointment Only

Saturday:

Closed

Sunday:

Closed