Running: pain in ankles

aprilgraciete

Hi, I am not runner but I would like to be. I completed C25K last summer and had a few times that I had pain and swelling in my ankles that forced me to take it easy. I started running again about a month ago and have just been working on speed (I am very slow) and endurance. My ankles are starting to hurt again and I don't know what I am doing wrong. I bought some good running shoes and have watched youtube videos on running form. I just don't know. Are there some exercises I should be doing to strengthen me ankles? I am flat footed....Could this be a problem? I only run 3 days a week and do jillian michaels dvds a couple times a week. Any advice?

pittsblue99

Congratulations on completing C25K Maybe mention it to your doctor. I was having pain in my right ankle when I started jogging last year and I did not realize that it was because I was rolling my ankle every time I stepped down on it until my doctor pointed it out. It took a little while but I was able to slowly change the way I land and it helped so much. Good luck

DS67ATX

You being a flat-foot runner could be part of the problem as it will effect you as a runner.Ive been running since I was 18 and now at 44 Ive had only two injuries.What you need to do as a runner is find control of your running.By that I mean,find your pace and find your breathing.The trick to being a long distance running is just that.you could try wrapping your ankle and put a little Ben Gay to heat it up before you run.You could also do ten second stretches on your feet.Just sit down on a chair and stretch your legs out in front of you,then push your toes foward then back towards you,ten seconds each way.See if that helps.

willismack2

When I had ankle problems from running, my PT had me work on proprioception. Basically it amounted to balancing on one foot with eyes closed and working on a balancing board. I also had to work on core strength. It took awhile but I finally got over the ankle issue. Good Luck

muddyventures

I know my form changes on the treadmill and I have to really watch it, because I will experience knee pain on the treadmill but not on the open road. I am also slow, I checked the bottom of my old shoes for a wear pattern and talked to someone about how to correct it. Maybe a running clinic, I haven't but really want to.