Is It Okay To Run When It Is Painful?

Running is an inexpensive and accessible exercise everyone can do to improve their health. In fact, some studies have found that running just five to 10 minutes every day at a moderate pace can reduce the risk of dying from a heart attack, stroke or other cardiovascular diseases. Additionally, running can help strengthen bones, build muscle and improve overall mood.

Many new runners, however, will quickly experience foot pain from running. And while foot injuries from running are common, the underlining causes vary from runner to runner.

If you have foot pain, are you wondering if you should still be running?

Anytime the foot responds in pain, it is a clue to take stock of what is going on. We would suggest taking a break from running until you get a clear picture of what is truly causing your pain. The first course of treatment is typically rest. Icing, anti-inflammatory medicines, shoe modification, orthotics, and exercises are other treatment options we may implement as well.

It is not always easy to slow down, especially if you are in the middle of training for a race, but it is better to be safe than sorry.

Your foot health needs to take TOP PRIORITY, and with our help, you will be back in your running shoes in no time.

Why Does Your Heel Hurt?: Is It Gout or Plantar Fasciitis ?

The word gout comes from the Greek word podagra, which literally translates to “foot grabber.”

Gout is a type of arthritis caused by a buildup of uric acid and characterized by foot pain, swelling, redness, and difficulty walking is typically localized in the big toe. However, some types of gout may be localized in the heel, making it difficult to distinguish from plantar fasciitis.

Let’s explore the connection between gout and heel pain that can help you tell the difference between plantar fasciitis and gout.

Gout is a disorder in which there is too much uric acid (hyperuricemia) in the body with the result that uric acid crystals form in the joints which in turn causes arthritic pain. Gout is most commonly evident in the joint of the big toe but other joints such as the ankle, instep, knee, wrist, and even the elbow, can be affected.

Symptoms include pain in the joints that is acute and severe. Joints may also swell, and be warm and reddish in color. Diagnosis is by physical exam in which certain symptoms are noted; especially problems with the big toe joint. Diagnosis can be confirmed by taking a sample of synovial fluid from the afflicted joint and looking for the presence of uric acid crystals. X-rays and ultrasound can also be helpful in the diagnosis of gout since they can sometimes show the presence of bone lesions.

Summary of Gout Vs. Plantar Fasciitis

• Gout is a condition in which uric acid builds up in the joints causing pain.

• Plantar fasciitis is a condition in which the tissue extending from the toes to the heel becomes inflamed.

Blood tests and fluid samples may be used to diagnose gout. Diagnosing plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, only requires a physical examination and imaging tests.

Medications, diet, and lifestyle changes may help treat gout. To treat plantar fasciitis, physical therapy, custom foot orthotics, and supportive footwear may be recommended, and, in some cases, surgery.

New Year, Same Foot Problems?

If your feet could help you make New Year's Resolutions, what would they say?

We know that our feet can’t talk. Even so, they’re giving us messages all the time about how they feel. At the start of the New Year, we at Pioneer Podiatry can’t imagine what would happen if our feet got involved in helping us make resolutions for 2023. 

Every year the most popular resolution made is for people to become healthier through exercise and diet. We agree that it’s an excellent goal, and, of course, we want everyone to live active, healthy lives. However, one aspect that many people don’t consider when making their resolutions is their ankle and foot health.

We’re getting back to basics here at Pioneer Podiatry because Foot Health Awareness is important. To have awareness of your feet simply means paying attention to what’s going on with them. We hope you go a step further and seek treatment early when you notice a problem.

Do examine your feet regularly. When you’re in the shower or drying off your feet, take a good look at them. Get to know what’s normal and what isn’t.

Do measure your feet from time to time. It may surprise you to know that your shoe size doesn’t always stay the same throughout your adult life.

Do visit our podiatrists at least once a year if you have diabetes. Regular diabetic foot checks are extremely important. They catch problems early, preventing needless infections and devastating amputations. 

Don't wear the same shoes all the time. Vary your footwear and try to wear supportive shoes as much as possible.

Don't ignore pain. Foot pain often gets worse without treatment. And the longer you put off treatment, the harder it becomes.