New to running and my arch hurts.

SarahMorganP

So I have only run twice now (well more than the 2min runs I have done in the past) and both times later in the day and the next day my right foot hurts pretty bad in the arch. It only hurts while walking or if you press on it, it doesn't hurt if I am off of it. Both times I have run on the treadmill 4.5-5mph at a 1.5% incline for only 15min at most at at time.

I have heard that you really need to invest in a very good pair of shoes for running but that just can't happen at this time. I will be getting birthday money in a month and plan to use that for a good pair, but right now I just don't have the extra money. Is it most likely the shoes? The pain goes away by the time I plan to run again (every other day) so I'm not terribly concerned. I just really don't want to mess something up bad and have me not be able to run at all you know?

I guess my question for the runners is, does this just sound like normal getting started running pain? Should I not be concerned since it does go away? Should I simply not run until I can afford the good shoes? Thanks for any opinions!

SarahMorganP

bump :happy:

jldaley09

Do not ignore foot pain! I did and ended up having to take a 6 mth break from running. I went and bought good running shoes and it has made all the difference in the world.. I would take it slow until you can get some good shoes.. walking at a moderate speed with incline will burn about as much calories as jogging will. I still have some mild foot pain because I ignored it when I first started running 10 mths ago.. I think if I had paid attention to it at first I wouldn't have had to take such a long break.

BelMckenzie

I have not had that type of pain before running so I am guessing it is your shoes that are the problem. You need some arch support, since I believe you can pull a muscle(not an expert tho). I would suggest a decent (cheaper) running shoe like the Fila Heyzel Running shoe- it offers great arch support. I have heard many suggestions from other runners to use those shoes on a budget. I have a pair of them, I don't have arch pain from them but I get blisters on my heels since they don't properly fit me so I usually get Asics shoes since they are a better fit and support for my feet but I go through my running shoes about every 3-4 months so I wanted to try something cheaper.

FYI- I'm not a hard core runner, but hopefully working on getting there, but I do work part time in the shoe department at a store, so I know a little bit about shoes.

MsDandimite

Being "tight" in the lower legs can also contribute according to my orthotist husband. Stretch your feet and legs through often. I have a similar problem but on the side of my foot. My calfs are super tight and it spreads down.
Also, remember that if you're a bit heavy and your feet are not used to the impact, it takes a bit of time to build up the strength. (and good shoes help) Be mindful of form and relax your legs as much as possible when running. Go slow!. Also, try to land on the middle of your foot or the front and don't "roll" from your heel.
If the pain increases or doesn't get better, as the PP says, absolutely don't ignore it.

Hope any of that can help

kjerstenkipp

I have been running for years now and my vote is for the shoes....you really have to get good ones. And you need to go to a running store, not a Foot Locker type store. You need someone to look at your gait to determine what type of shoe you should wear. The wrong shoes can really cause a problem. The Runners World website has excellent information for new runners...and a pretty extensive shoe review

brandyk77

You need to get fitted and get proper shoes. What works for one person may not work for another so shoe 'reviews' are pretty much worthless in my opinion.