Running is a great way to keep in good health. It’s the kind of activity you can do anytime or anywhere. Proper footwear can help avert running injuries. While running, the feet and ankles take on a great deal of stress. A runner may experience an injury if the stress exceeds high levels. Injuries often experienced by runners include Achilles tendonitis, ankle sprains, plantar fasciitis, and shin splints.

Following are some key tips to help avoid running injuries:

• The importance of warm-up and stretching: Before you go on your daily runs or do any form of exercise, it is extremely important that you do some warm-up laps and stretches. Take 5 to 10 minutes to do the necessary stretches such as knee clasp, hamstring stretch, and wall push-ups. It is necessary to warm up the Achilles tendon to avoid tendonitis.
• Proper footwear: Choice of footwear is key in averting major running injuries. Wear the right shoe for the right activity. For example, one cannot wear golf shoes while going for a morning run. Always wear the right shoe size to help avoid overlapping of your toes. Before making a shoe purchase, have the foot measured by a professional. Avoid going barefoot.
• Orthotic shoe inserts:  Put inserts inside the shoes to help correct fallen arches, gait imbalances and other problems.
• Stop rushing: When one starts a new exercise routine after a long break, you need to take it slow and easy to avoid injury (stress fractures).
• Cooling off after your exercise routine: Let your body cool off and recover after a good run.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids before, in-between or after the long run. This can help lessen cramps, which are often caused by dehydration.

Running injuries are quite common. Even pro athletes experience this over and over again. The best resource for your foot and ankle needs is your podiatrist.

If you are suffering from a sports injury or any other foot and ankle condition, then it is time to call Joseph Stuto, DPM of Brooklyn, New York. There Dr. Joseph A. Stuto and Dr. Joseph C. Stuto can help you with all kinds of foot and ankle problems. Contact us at (718) 624 7537 and schedule an appointment today!