Arch support for running?

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DiannaDeeley
DiannaDeeley Posts: 10
in Fitness and Exercise
Hi,

I have added running to my fitness regimen, and mostly feel great. However, my feet are doing some bothersome things.

Now, I know that the first thing everyone complains about is her feet, but I have been very lucky in that regard. I had some foot cramps when I took up martial arts, but that's eased up as I have gone on. Now, with running, I'm getting severe foot cramps, again, only partially eased by taking potassium and upping my water intake, and, in association, my arches are bothering me, as if the tendon leading to the big toe is contracting, or something. It's very, very uncomfortable.

So, do I need to get arch supports for my running shoes? Is there something else I ought to be doing? Is there a known, specific stretch or exercise I need to add to my warm up/cool down routines?

Thank you!

Replies

  • Cherimoose
    Cherimoose Posts: 5,209 Member
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    Try increasing the flexibility in your feet / arches, by doing this stretch hourly:
    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HEintoiiqSg

    You may need to slip in a pair of supportive insoles (Superfeet are good), until your feet are stronger. Don't use them unless you feel pain. Normally it's best to wear shoes with a thin, flexible sole (like Keds) so your arch gets the "workout" it needs. Avoid shoes with a raised heel (puts more weight on the forefoot).
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
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    So, do I need to get arch supports for my running shoes? Is there something else I ought to be doing? Is there a known, specific stretch or exercise I need to add to my warm up/cool down routines?

    Also check out......

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nIFS-Myco24

    The pain may also be a result of weak calves:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGHFokrX6qw

    and stronger calves can also help prevent shin splints.

    It may also be that your shoes are inappropriate for your gait (and/or a combination of all of the above)
  • DiannaDeeley
    DiannaDeeley Posts: 10
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    Thank you, that is very helpful. The stretch feels right - not painful, but stretchy, as I did it just now.
  • DiannaDeeley
    DiannaDeeley Posts: 10
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    Thank you.
  • _HeartsOnFire_
    _HeartsOnFire_ Posts: 5,304 Member
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    I went to a running store and had them fit me for shoes.

    Also, some physical therapy offices could make orthotics for you. *Some* insurances actually cover that too.

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