Are You a Runner? Here’s How Poor Form Can Impact Your Feet

If you’re a runner, you probably already know that it’s a great form of exercise. Running strengthens your heart, keeps you in shape, and usually makes you feel great. It’s one of the best workouts you can do, but it isn’t without risks.

However, you may be sidelined by foot pain if you have poor form when running. Having poor form puts a lot of stress on your feet, which can have several negative effects. The providers at All Care Foot & Ankle Center explain more about what you need to know.

What is proper running form?

Proper running form always starts with good posture. Stand tall, with your shoulders back. Make sure to keep your neck aligned and looking forward, instead of looking up or down.

You’ll also want to keep your torso straight and upright. This engages your core muscles, which helps your run burn more calories.

Why is proper running form important?

Proper running form is important for many reasons. 

One part of proper running form includes focusing on your breath. Make sure you’re breathing evenly and normally rather than breathing hard. Over-exerting yourself and breathing hard can be less efficient. Just keep it natural.

Focus on inhaling with every breath and exhaling on the next, in a nice, even rhythm.

Because running is an activity that presents a risk of overuse and repetitive strain, you want to focus on having the correct form to minimize these risks.

The effects on your feet

If you continue to run with poor form, it can do a lot of damage to your feet. Some of the effects you may experience include the following:

Achilles tendonitis

Achilles tendonitis is a common problem for runners that often results from poor form. The Achilles tendon is the band of tissue that runs from the back of your calf to your foot. 

It may become inflamed or tight, which can cause pain. Continuing to run while your Achilles tendon is inflamed may cause serious damage, so it’s a good idea to make an appointment with Dr. Tran if this happens to you.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is another common foot problem for runners. When you have this condition, you will usually wake up with stabbing pain in your heels, which gradually gets better throughout the day.

We usually recommend rest, in addition to physical therapy. In addition, you may want to wear more supportive shoes more often.

Complications from diabetes

If you are diabetic, running is a great activity to do for exercise. However, it also requires more attention to your feet. Though diabetes doesn’t usually affect your form, it can affect your feet.

Because diabetes desensitizes your feet, you may not notice if your feet are injured. Make sure to keep regular appointments with Dr. Tran to check the condition of your feet.

If you’re a runner and you wonder if you have poor form, we can check. Contact the providers at All Foot & Ankle Care Center today, or request an appointment online.