Running is an effective way to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength, and endurance, but the repeated impact placed on the feet and ankles can contribute to injuries. When muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other tissues do not have enough time to recover between workouts, overuse injuries may develop. Some of the most common running-related conditions include plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, and ankle sprains. Recognizing these problems early can help runners address symptoms before they interfere with training or daily activities.

Plantar fasciitis develops when the plantar fascia, a strong band of tissue supporting the bottom of the foot, becomes irritated. It commonly causes stabbing or aching pain near the heel that may be especially noticeable with the first steps after waking or resting. Achilles tendinopathy affects the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Runners may experience pain, stiffness, tenderness, or swelling along the tendon, particularly during running or other physical activities. Ankle sprains occur when the ligaments supporting the ankle are stretched beyond their normal range or torn, often after a sudden twist or awkward landing.

Several factors can increase the risk of running injuries. Wearing worn-out, unsupportive, or poorly-fitting running shoes may place additional stress on the feet and lower legs. Tight calf muscles, limited flexibility, and muscle weakness can also contribute to excessive strain. Poor running mechanics can also have an effect. Increasing mileage, speed, or training intensity too quickly may prevent the body from adapting safely. Common symptoms include localized pain, stiffness, and swelling. Tenderness, bruising, and reduced mobility may also occur.

Preventing running injuries starts with allowing the body adequate recovery time and increasing training gradually. Runners should choose supportive footwear appropriate for their running style and replace shoes when they become excessively worn. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises may also improve flexibility and stability. If foot or ankle pain persists, worsens, or limits activity, it is suggested that you consult a chiropodist for an evaluation and personalized treatment plan.

Trauma to the foot or ankle is one of the most common reasons that people visit a chiropodist. If you have a foot or ankle injury, please consult with one of our chiropodists from West Toronto Foot & Ankle Clinic Inc. . Our chiropodist can help you maintain the health of your lower limbs and your mobility. 

Your feet contain 26 bones, 33 joints, and more than 100 tendons, muscles, and ligaments. Your ankles are large joints made up of three bones and various ligaments. All of these components work together to allow your lower limbs to move you throughout your life. Injuries to the feet and ankles can affect any one of these structures and can occur at any time. Some of the most common foot and ankle injuries include:

• Morton’s neuroma - Swelling of a nerve that runs between two toes, causes pain in the ball of the foot
• Stress fractures - Tiny cracks in one or more bones that can cause severe pain
• Plantar fasciitis - An inflammation of the ligament that runs along the bottom of the foot, causes stabbing heel pain
• Sesamoiditis - Causes pain in the sesamoid bones, located beneath the ball of the foot
• Achilles tendonitis - Inflammation of the tendon that connects the calf muscles to the heel bone, causes pain in the back of the calf
• Ankle sprain - Overstretching or tearing of one or more ligaments in the ankle, which causes ankle pain and can make it difficult to walk 

Injuries to the feet and ankles often occur during athletic activities, such as running or playing a sport, or while wearing ill-fitting shoes. Other potential causes of injury include impacts from accidents, a sudden twisting while walking, or underlying biomechanical problems or medical conditions that affect the feet. Treatment for most of these injuries typically involves resting the feet and modifying activities and footwear to take pressure off of the affected foot. 

All of these conditions, and many more, can be diagnosed and treated by a chiropodist. If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Toronto, ON .