Whether you run to stay fit and healthy or as a serious competitor, chances are you will experience an annoying and painful foot injury. After all when you really stop and think about it, your feet endure constant and repetitive movement literally making your feet casualties of war in the form of blisters, callouses, and damaged toenails. The knowledgeable podiatrists at Belmont Anderson Podiatry understand that your feet are complex works of art which are comprised of an intricately weaved pattern of tendons, bones, ligaments and muscles which require professional care to stay healthy. While many of us take the proper precautions, the reality is that none of us are immune to the risk of injury. Belmont Anderson Podiatry can help you to avoid and recover from many running injuries including two of the most common; plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinitis.
Symptoms of Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common injuries known to plague runners the world over. Symptoms include a sharp pain which radiates at the base of the heel. Patients most often describe the pain as being similar to stepping down hard on a small stone. The degree of pain will sometimes diminish as you get up and move around only to return the following day. The most common causes of plantar fasciitis are overuse, overtraining, and incorrectly fitted or worn out footwear, however the root cause of the problem is weakened and tight musculature in the foot. If your feet are weak, you will inadvertently overload your heel which is unable to cope with the heightened degree of stress during your run.
Plantar Fasciitis Treatment
Your podiatrist will recommend a treatment plan which may include orthotics, stretching and strengthening exercises and other specialized treatments designed to break down scar tissue and restore normal function in your feet. The goal of long term management and care includes strengthening the muscles in and around your feet to provide relief and stop the risk of a recurrence.
Symptoms of Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis is best described as an inflammatory disorder involving the Achilles tendon. Your Achilles tendon is located in the lower portion of your leg which allows for less blood flow from the heart, this diminished blood flow in turn slows down the healing process. Although Achilles tendinitis is similar in nature to plantar fasciitis it tends to cause pain at the back of the leg above the heel in the thick band of tissue that creates the attachment between your calf muscle and your heel bone. Those suffering from Achilles tendinitis are well versed with the symptoms of swelling and pain which are often incapacitating. The most common cause of Achilles tendinitis includes tight calves caused by improper footwear and over training.
Achilles Tendinitis Treatment
Resting your legs along with stretching and ice will help to relieve symptoms. Your podiatrist may recommend specialized techniques including orthotics along with other customized treatment plans designed to break up scar tissue. To further help with your recovery keep an eye on your training protocols including the intensity of your running workout and progress slowly over a period of time until you reach your goals.
Treatment for Running Injuries
For more information regarding the treatment of plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinitis contact the knowledgeable experts at Belmont Anderson Podiatry today.