Running and walking are fantastic activities for helping in taking care of our cardiovascular system, for our wellbeing and for the conditioning of our musculoskeletal system. As human beings, we are well designed to do both. We don’t have to be expert athletes to enjoy the benefits of walking. Walking can be enjoyed at any age and pace. A slow trundle through the fields or along the beach, taking in the fresh air, what more could you want. However, many people come to us experiencing discomfort walking or running, of course there are many reasons as to why this happens, and it is an individual case by case scenario. No two human bodies are completely alike, unless you are identical twins, then you should have greater physiological similarities than you do differences, but even then, through life, we adapt our own ways and habbits, even if our bodies are similar.
We could list all the possibilities as to why people get foot pain, but for today, it would be too much information. Today, is about basics. So why do some people experience pain in the achilies tendon, insertion at the heel, underneath the heel, arch of the foot or ball of the foot. Well, there are many medical or musculoskeletal conditions or unique body structures and movement patterns that could contribute to the formation of pain but, at its simplest level it comes down to this for your average person, and we learned this statement at undergraduate level at university. ‘Its not what you have got, it is how you use it’.
For feet and lower leg, efficient walking technique, cadence, stride length, conditioning or even, just doing alot of activity in either a day or over a prolonged period of time, can cause discomfort. At the most basic level, a bit of muscle fatigue, or light soreness, and at the other end of the spectrum, tendonitis and more.
If I were to give people free advice on the feet, basic life advice I would say this.
Have good running trainers and footwear, it makes such a difference. We have good relationships with local shoe shops and running stores who can help you get the best out of your footwear and help you make better informed choices. My personal favourite shoe type is a good running trainer, and the best trainer is the one ‘you’ find most comfortable. We should look at shoes like a carpenter looks at a tool box. Right shoe for the right job. Consider also, a very basic arch support. Now these are not for everyone, but they do help in some cases a variety of conditions and complications.
I feel most importantly arch supports can significantly help foot fatigue (tired achy muscles of the feet). A low heel raise. For anyone with heel pain, these can be priceless in relieving symptoms.
And finally, a little bit of gait awareness exercises and lower leg muscle stretches. Working with a trained physiotherapist or podiatrist, you should be able to get some good tips on how you may be able to move more efficiently safely and with better control.
Of course, if your still not sure, seek the advice of your medical practitioner. As Podiatrists we are more than happy to give our advice on your footwear, your walking and running style, a few rehabilitation and stretching exercises, orthotic advice, taping and strapping and more.
If you would like a review or advice on your shoes, footwear, orthotics and more or, you are in a little pain and discomfort or you have an event coming up where your gona be on your feet alot, then of course, we would be happy to see you.
07748 142169
01202 748 899 Sandbanks Clinic
info@coastalpodiatry.co.uk