It's the time of year many people will lace up their shoes and hit the pavement to run a 5K or marathon, but as much as you train for running long distance, there's something unexpected that could slow down your pace.
"I've been constantly running, not doing any strength training in between the supplement and started developing tendonitis in my right heel," competitive runner Chris Bell said.
Bell has been a podiatric patient at Sparks Hospital in Fort Smith for about a year. Jason Seiter, DPM said his job is to keep him in the race.
"Chris loves to run and it's our goal to keep him up and doing that activity," Dr. Seiter said.
Dr. Seiter said ingrown toenails and heel pain are common this time of year since we tend to hibernate in the winter months and aren't as active. Bell said he now ices his feet after a long run and makes sure he has the proper shoes to get him to the finish line. But a word of warning: if you buy a new pair of shoes, make sure you break them in before you pound the pavement.
"Otherwise it's going to end up with a blister, which could lead to ulceration, or it could end up leading to a significant issue that's where the tendon becomes irritated, like plantar fasciitis," Dr. Seiter said.
Another piece of advice, make sure you train slow so you can avoid potential injuries and enjoy meeting your goals.
"Enjoy it," Seiter said. "Smile. Have a good time. That's the main reason you come out there and if you can run for a good cause."
It's not just runners that have problems this time of year. If things like pediatric flat foot, warts, or ingrown toenails are causing you pain, it's best to seek medical attention. He said if you have diabetes, you’re at an increased risk of foot and ankle trouble.
Watch the video for more information.
Sponsored by Sparks Health System.
