Running...wow. Advice for my poor feet...

BoxerBrawler
BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
I recently started running and am hooked! I love it! It's the only physical activity I can do anymore that can spike my heart rate and get me sweating. I do a big variety of exercises but everything else takes a good 40 minutes or so for me to even warm up and yes I do give maximum effort in everything I do.

Also, since I have started running my overall body conditioning and muscle tone is out of control strong! I have lost inches and ounces and my cardio level is off the charts! I feel like I've tapped into a secret club LOL

Anyway... I did some research, I have the right footwear and have experimented with the tips and tricks to running right but damn, my feet are taking beating! Any advice?

Thanks!

Replies

  • hermann341
    hermann341 Posts: 443 Member
    If you've been properly fitted at a running store, check with a podiatrist. Plantar fasciitis is a top complaint for foot pain, and you may need inserts for your shoes.
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    Thanks! I will do that...

    I don't have any pain in my feet or knees or anything, just beat up feet!

    For example... years ago I broke both of my big toes and ever since then my big toe nails have grown but brittle and thick plus I've always had discoloration under the nails. They are healthy nails, just odd I guess since breaking them. Anyway... recently both of them literally split right in half and busted off. I also do a lot of very intense calisthenics but this happened since I started running so I figured that had something to do with it. No pain or anything... but really?
  • crispsandwich
    crispsandwich Posts: 177 Member
    are your running shoes big enough, I had to go up a size when I went and got fitted out at a running shop x
  • Capt_Apollo
    Capt_Apollo Posts: 9,026 Member
    put aquaphor on your feet, especially the areas prone to blisters.
  • hermann341
    hermann341 Posts: 443 Member
    I've been lucky with my toenails over the 2.5 years I've been running. Only two partial bruises under my left big toe, so that I only lost a part of the nail. So even if you're not feeling any pain, the foot doctor would have the best advice.
  • shinkalork
    shinkalork Posts: 815 Member
    As weird as it can be...are you running in special running zones,streets or sidewalks?

    zones and streets are fine...but sidewalks for beginners are harder on the feet....they're not made with the same concret material etc..... put more strain on feet,shins and knees.

    Just saying ;)
  • lisaabenjamin
    lisaabenjamin Posts: 665 Member
    If your toenails are falling off (eew gross!) then I would guess your shoes are a little too small, either lengthwise or depthwise. I'm a half size bigger in runnings shoes than I am my normal shoes, plus when I buy new runners I always have to try a few pairs to find ones that don't squish my feet too much.
  • rml_16
    rml_16 Posts: 16,414 Member
    Thanks! I will do that...

    I don't have any pain in my feet or knees or anything, just beat up feet!

    For example... years ago I broke both of my big toes and ever since then my big toe nails have grown but brittle and thick plus I've always had discoloration under the nails. They are healthy nails, just odd I guess since breaking them. Anyway... recently both of them literally split right in half and busted off. I also do a lot of very intense calisthenics but this happened since I started running so I figured that had something to do with it. No pain or anything... but really?

    Did you get fitted at a running store or did you just randomly choose a pair of shoes you liked?

    I had issues with my toenails before I went to a store and got properly fitted. You may have done that, but someone else brought it up and you didn't address it, so I'm asking again.
  • girlcalledryan
    girlcalledryan Posts: 241 Member
    Downhills can be hard on toenials, they will push your toes against the frontof your shoe, and the trauma can pull the nail from the bed. This is a common injusry you see alot in people with brittle nails and in other sports, like basketball. Toenail trauma is hard to avoid. Make sure you have not just the right size shoe but right shape to keep you foot from moving around and slamming into the shoe. And good luck! Your lost toenails will be in good company with all the other toenails lost while running.
  • allana1111
    allana1111 Posts: 390 Member
    in on this.. but I have tons of leg pain. I just started running on sunday and have been going every day, wonder if you're supposed to take breaks?
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    Haha!
    It is pretty gross but good to know it's common with runners and other sports and I haven't developed some weirdness that no one has ever heard of.

    I will have to get fitted appropriately.

    I have a pair if Nike Fitsoles and I absolutely love them! But right... I probably have to go up a size.

    Thanks!
  • nicoleelle13
    nicoleelle13 Posts: 3
    Try using bodyglide around your toes to avoid blisters (which also allows for increased movement).

    Although controversial, I'd suggest trying Vibram Five Fingers (the "toe" shoes). The Bikila model is my preferred style (perfect and light-weight for running). Look into some *recent* research and you will find that a more natural/barefoot shoe is beneficial. (An added bonus is that your legs will become much more strong & toned!)

    Barefoot/Vibram running allows for you to connect with the ground and be more aware of your gaite and stride length. I love my Vibrams and would never go back to running in "stabilizing" or "neutral" shoes with so much cushioning and added weight. Plus, since switching 2 years ago I haven't lost a toenail - which happened at least once a summer when running in conventional runners!
  • usmcj80
    usmcj80 Posts: 58
    It is not super uncommon for toenails to take a beating when it comes to running especially if you are doing significant amounts of mileage per week. My big toenails haven't split in half but they do tend to be more brittle now then they were before I started running. I would make sure you get fitted for a good pair of shoes at a s[specialty running store. If there is no real pain associated with the toenails breaking and such I wouldn't worry about it. There are some ultra marathon runners (anything over 26.2 is considered an ultra marathon) that actually have their toenails removed but those guys are hardcore.

    As for Allana1111 Yeah you have to take breaks. You can't just start running every single day if it isn't something you did on a regular basis. Start with every other day if you really like it and then you can increase frequency or mileage as you go. If every other day leaves you hurting then cut back to just two or three times a week and work from there.

    To both of you...welcome to running. I love it and I hope you guys do as well.
  • Capt_Apollo
    Capt_Apollo Posts: 9,026 Member
    Try using bodyglide around your toes to avoid blisters (which also allows for increased movement).

    Although controversial, I'd suggest trying Vibram Five Fingers (the "toe" shoes). The Bikila model is my preferred style (perfect and light-weight for running). Look into some *recent* research and you will find that a more natural/barefoot shoe is beneficial. (An added bonus is that your legs will become much more strong & toned!)

    Barefoot/Vibram running allows for you to connect with the ground and be more aware of your gaite and stride length. I love my Vibrams and would never go back to running in "stabilizing" or "neutral" shoes with so much cushioning and added weight. Plus, since switching 2 years ago I haven't lost a toenail - which happened at least once a summer when running in conventional runners!


    oh really?

    FiveFingers Maker Will Pay Millions To Suckers Who Bought Its Shoes http://fittish.deadspin.com/vibram-fivefingers-still-stupid-now-culpable-1572955736
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    Yeah I really love it, it's the best exercise ever in my opinion!

    I have read that you should take one or two days off per week, especially if you're having pain.

    I have had some slight pain in my calves but I've also been doing intervals on a super nice tread mill and I like to put it up to a 50 degree incline and add some climbing into my routine... so that explains the calves LOL! But I consider that a good pain!

    I guess I am just going to have to paint the skin and pretend like they are toe nails this summer. Or I can have acrylic ones put on hahaha!
  • allana1111
    allana1111 Posts: 390 Member

    As for Allana1111 Yeah you have to take breaks. You can't just start running every single day if it isn't something you did on a regular basis. Start with every other day if you really like it and then you can increase frequency or mileage as you go. If every other day leaves you hurting then cut back to just two or three times a week and work from there.

    To both of you...welcome to running. I love it and I hope you guys do as well.

    thanks! It's killing me! but yet I'm still really enjoying it...haha i'll take a break from it for a day or two :)
  • SonicDeathMonkey80
    SonicDeathMonkey80 Posts: 4,489 Member
    You should slow down. If you're new to running, and doing it to "spike your heartrate" you're running will short lived as you'll be sidelined with injuries. I get the enthusiasm, but I'd dial the effort back a few notches.
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    You should slow down. If you're new to running, and doing it to "spike your heartrate" you're running will short lived as you'll be sidelined with injuries. I get the enthusiasm, but I'd dial the effort back a few notches.

    I agree!
    When I first started I was going full out as if I was being chased and I hated running. A friend who is an avid runner told me to leave the racing for the races and start off slow, like a fast walk almost, then do some jogging and then walking, jogging and then walking for a bit. So that's what I did and by doing so I've built up my endurance, distance and time in only a few weeks. Now, once I warm up and get into a nice rhythm I feel like I could just keep going for days... no break required :)
  • usmcj80
    usmcj80 Posts: 58
    Yeah. I can get into a groove sometimes and literally run for a few hours. If you are really liking running and are also into nature and outdoors stuff, find a good trail to run on. It will work so many more muscles, is usually a little easier on the joints, throws some diversity into your routine, and is just amazing to get out into nature and enjoy your surroundings as you run.
  • rml_16
    rml_16 Posts: 16,414 Member
    Haha!
    It is pretty gross but good to know it's common with runners and other sports and I haven't developed some weirdness that no one has ever heard of.

    I will have to get fitted appropriately.

    I have a pair if Nike Fitsoles and I absolutely love them! But right... I probably have to go up a size.

    Thanks!
    Yeah, no matter how much you love them, if your toenails are falling off, they probably aren't the right shoes for your feet.
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    Yeah. I can get into a groove sometimes and literally run for a few hours. If you are really liking running and are also into nature and outdoors stuff, find a good trail to run on. It will work so many more muscles, is usually a little easier on the joints, throws some diversity into your routine, and is just amazing to get out into nature and enjoy your surroundings as you run.

    Thanks, great idea! There are a lot of trails through the woods where I live, I'll give that a go!
  • BoxerBrawler
    BoxerBrawler Posts: 2,032 Member
    Haha!
    It is pretty gross but good to know it's common with runners and other sports and I haven't developed some weirdness that no one has ever heard of.

    I will have to get fitted appropriately.

    I have a pair if Nike Fitsoles and I absolutely love them! But right... I probably have to go up a size.

    Thanks!
    Yeah, no matter how much you love them, if your toenails are falling off, they probably aren't the right shoes for your feet.

    Thanks, I'll get fitted this weekend at the running store.
    I'll reserve my Fitsoles for my other activities.

    I do MMA and I box and had to change shoes for that activity, it wasn't an easy task because I needed something with a ton of ankle support, good lateral support, good balance but light. Hard to find! I also dance and needed a different pair for that, again something light with good lateral support but something that could stick to the floor when I needed it too but light enough for my jumps. Needless to say I have several pairs for various activities... looks like I'll be getting another pair. My husband will love this... NOT LOL!
  • wilsoje74
    wilsoje74 Posts: 1,720 Member
    I recently started running and am hooked! I love it! It's the only physical activity I can do anymore that can spike my heart rate and get me sweating. I do a big variety of exercises but everything else takes a good 40 minutes or so for me to even warm up and yes I do give maximum effort in everything I do.

    Also, since I have started running my overall body conditioning and muscle tone is out of control strong! I have lost inches and ounces and my cardio level is off the charts! I feel like I've tapped into a secret club LOL

    Anyway... I did some research, I have the right footwear and have experimented with the tips and tricks to running right but damn, my feet are taking beating! Any advice?

    Thanks!
    what exactly is happening to your feet? How often are you running?
  • wilsoje74
    wilsoje74 Posts: 1,720 Member
    Yes your shoes sound too small.
  • saskie78
    saskie78 Posts: 237 Member
    I have the worst feet. The worst. I wear them like a badge of runner's honor :) Happy for you that you found a new passion!
  • Platform_Heels
    Platform_Heels Posts: 388 Member
    Try using bodyglide around your toes to avoid blisters (which also allows for increased movement).

    Although controversial, I'd suggest trying Vibram Five Fingers (the "toe" shoes). The Bikila model is my preferred style (perfect and light-weight for running). Look into some *recent* research and you will find that a more natural/barefoot shoe is beneficial. (An added bonus is that your legs will become much more strong & toned!)

    Barefoot/Vibram running allows for you to connect with the ground and be more aware of your gaite and stride length. I love my Vibrams and would never go back to running in "stabilizing" or "neutral" shoes with so much cushioning and added weight. Plus, since switching 2 years ago I haven't lost a toenail - which happened at least once a summer when running in conventional runners!


    oh really?

    FiveFingers Maker Will Pay Millions To Suckers Who Bought Its Shoes http://fittish.deadspin.com/vibram-fivefingers-still-stupid-now-culpable-1572955736

    I have a pair of vibrams. I used them for running a few times and I used them when doing insanity and I f*cked up my foot. Now I have to wear a special pad under the toes of one foot or else I am in excruciating pain when I run to the point where I can barely walk.

    Don't get me wrong. I like my vibrams. As water shoes and nothing else.

    ETA: My local Fleet Feet was inundated with returns of the vibram shoes when runners started hurting themselves while running in them.
  • scorpio516
    scorpio516 Posts: 955 Member
    Sounds like your shoes are a half or 1 size too small.

    They might feel great any other time, but after a little bit running, your feet swell.
  • nicoleelle13
    nicoleelle13 Posts: 3
    Try using bodyglide around your toes to avoid blisters (which also allows for increased movement).

    Although controversial, I'd suggest trying Vibram Five Fingers (the "toe" shoes). The Bikila model is my preferred style (perfect and light-weight for running). Look into some *recent* research and you will find that a more natural/barefoot shoe is beneficial. (An added bonus is that your legs will become much more strong & toned!)

    Barefoot/Vibram running allows for you to connect with the ground and be more aware of your gaite and stride length. I love my Vibrams and would never go back to running in "stabilizing" or "neutral" shoes with so much cushioning and added weight. Plus, since switching 2 years ago I haven't lost a toenail - which happened at least once a summer when running in conventional runners!


    oh really?

    FiveFingers Maker Will Pay Millions To Suckers Who Bought Its Shoes http://fittish.deadspin.com/vibram-fivefingers-still-stupid-now-culpable-1572955736

    I have a pair of vibrams. I used them for running a few times and I used them when doing insanity and I f*cked up my foot. Now I have to wear a special pad under the toes of one foot or else I am in excruciating pain when I run to the point where I can barely walk.

    Don't get me wrong. I like my vibrams. As water shoes and nothing else.

    ETA: My local Fleet Feet was inundated with returns of the vibram shoes when runners started hurting themselves while running in them.

    To each his own! Like I said, I've had great success with them and have completed numerous long (30km+) and short runs in them. You do have to begin using them gradually, (which may have been your problem @Platform_Heel), as your foot and leg muscles need to properly develop and strengthen.

    As Mark Sisson put it, "You can’t just “go barefoot” and have perfect form. You have to work at it. Barefoot running and even walking are skills that must be learned, whether through expert instruction or careful exploration of one’s own experience. Barefooting is a big change for most people who’ve spent the bulk of their lives walking and running in shoes.

    Read more: http://www.marksdailyapple.com/the-barefoot-backlash-are-the-naysayers-right-after-all/#ixzz31hszEZ00"
  • nicoleelle13
    nicoleelle13 Posts: 3
    I'm also just going to post this here: http://www.runnersworld.com/general-interest/vibram-agrees-to-settle-class-action-lawsuit

    Check out a few of the comments below the article.

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