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Caring for Your Feet After a Run

  • Dr. Bruce Zappan
  • November 16, 2017

Running is an excellent exercise that doesn’t require a lot of equipment, and it gets you up and exercising with nothing more than a good pair of running shoes and a nice place to jog. Regular exercise lowers blood pressure, and decreases your risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Regular exercise has also been shown to reduce risks for cancer of the lungs, colon, and breasts.

While running is great exercise, and you know the importance of cooling down, stretching, and rehydrating after a run, your feet really take a pounding and it’s very important to treat your tired, aching feet with a little TLC.

Some great tips to keep your feet happy after a run include:

  • Cooling soak—Soak your feet in cool water with epsom salts for ten minutes. This will help decrease inflammation of your muscle fibers, and relax the blood vessels.
  • Foot massage—If you can find someone to squeeze your feet after a run, either with a professional foot massage, or just easing the soreness yourself, your feet will thank you.
  • Moisturize—Applying a good emollient cream to your feet after showering will help your feet rehydrate and mitigate the formation of painful blisters and heel cracks.
  • Inspect your feet—Look for any signs of blistering, and treat them before they worsen. Keep blisters covered, and don’t pop them. It is best to let them resolve on their own.

For any problems you may be experiencing with your feet and ankles, it is important to see a foot specialist to receive the correct care. Bruce B. Zappan, D.P.M., P.C. of Medical Arts Podiatry Associates in Philadelphia, PA is an expert in all aspects of foot and ankle care. Please feel free to contact us with any questions or make an appointment with our office at 215-563-2560.