Running Comfortably This Fall
Fall is one of the best seasons to enjoy good outdoor runs. The oppressive heat of summer gives way to milder temperatures in fall, which makes it easier for you to run and train. It’s also a beautiful season, as foliage changes and people decorate for various holidays. It’s a running season you don’t want to miss, especially for something like metatarsalgia. Taking a few precautions can help you run comfortably and enjoy the fall running season without being interrupted by forefoot pain.
Metatarsalgia is a common problem for runners. The hard, repetitive pounding from striking the ground and pushing off again can take a real toll on the ball of the foot. Inflammation and irritation develops, making it more and more painful to run. Fortunately, the condition doesn’t mean the end of your fall running season. A little prevention can go a long way, and if you already have forefoot pain, you can easily accommodate it to make your runs more comfortable.
Here are a few tips to help you run comfortably:
Run with the right shoes – Worn out or poorly fitted shoes are no help to your feet. Make sure your footwear is supportive and fits your needs.
Stretch and condition your feet – Strong, conditioned feet are less susceptible to overuse and other injuries.
Use metatarsal pads – If your ball of the foot is prone to inflammation, or you’re already feeling pain there, extra padding may help with the pressure and shock absorption, relieving pain.
Use orthotics – Orthotics can go a long way in helping support your feet or control biomechanics that may be contributing to forefoot pain.
Take care of the pain at home – When your feet already hurt, home care can be a big help. Try RICE techniques and stretching to alleviate discomfort.
No runner enjoys having their fall season, or any season for that matter, interrupted by something as simple as metatarsalgia. If you’re struggling with forefoot pain and it’s already interrupting your runs, don’t wait and hope it will go away on its own. Contact Gulf South Foot & Ankle, LLC for more information or a consultation to take care for your foot pain today. Call (504) 708-4810 or use our website to reach our Metairie, LA, office.