Are You Running The Cambridge Half Marathon?
On 9th March, Cambridge will hold the 14th edition of TTP Cambridge Half Marathon. At Cutting Edge Podiatry, we know about the importance of keeping your feet healthy. Here are some foot care tips for runners.
1. Wear Suitable Shoes
For all races, regardless the distance, it is very important to not wear brand new shoes on the day of the race. It is recommended that shoes have been worn beforehand so that your feet are perfectly adapted to that pair of running shoes.
It is highly recommended to wear appropriate trainers for the surface on which you ‘re going to run. Running on pavement is not the same as running in the mountains. Choosing the right shoes for the terrain is just as important as getting good technical socks to reduce friction and decrease moisture.
It may sound obvious, but wear shoes that fit! A shoe that is too big can be just as bad for your foot health as a shoe that is shorter fitting.
2. Fasten Your Shoes Correctly
It is advisable to tie your shoes well to avoid movement of the foot inside the shoes. This movement can lead to chafing or bruising of the nails due to continuous micro-traumas. To ensure the foot is properly secured inside the shoe, it is advisable to use all the eyelets
on the laces.
3. Consider The Race Terrain
If the race terrain is unsteady and hilly, it is important to consider these conditions prior to the run. Thereby, we will be reducing the overload of the Achilles tendon or the
soleus muscle .
4. Moisturise Your Feet
Hydration of your feet is important regardless of whether you partake in sports. Runners should keep their feet extra moisturised. It is recommended that runners moisturise feet at the end of the day. Avoid putting cream on your feet before the race as this would increase friction.
5. Taping Before a Race
Taping the ball of your feet and toes with medical tape may help reduce friction.
6. Should You Trim Your Nails Before a Race?
Do not trim your toenails the day before a race. It is advisable to cut your toenails at least a week beforehand. Poor cutting could cause problems and keep you out of action. You could consider visiting a podiatrist before race to have your feet checked.
How Cutting Edge Podiatry Can Help Runners
At Cutting Edge Podiatry in Cambridge, we can help with routine foot care and biomechanical assessments, including Run3D gait analysis. If you would like to find out more about how we can help you, give us a call on 01223 633 038, or book an appointment online.
