At Dr. Jill’s Foot Pads, we know that many people will be making a New Year’s resolution to get in shape in 2020 and running is a popular fitness choice. As with any new exercise plan, however, there is a right way and a wrong way to go about it. Too often in the enthusiasm of getting off to a good start, people overdo it. For runners, this can result in muscle strain and injury. Below are some products that can help with two common issues new runners experience.

Achilles Tendonitis

You Achilles tendon is a band of tissue that connects your calf muscle to your heel bone. A sudden upsurge in activity that uses this tendon—such as running—can result in micro tears in the tendon which cause inflammation and pain. This is called Achilles Tendonitis. Running regimens that have you working out too often at a high level of intensity means that your body will not have the opportunity to repair the damage and continual pain and even serious injury can occur. The solution is to choose a program that starts out slow and gradually increases in both intensity and duration. Make sure you stretch your calf muscles once you are warmed up. Our Achilles Heel Sleeve can help protect the Achilles tendon and the back of the heel. A soft gel pad inside fabric reduces friction and gently compresses the area, reducing pressure on sore spots. This sleeve is designed for use in all styles of footwear. It is latex-free and washable, so you can use it over and over again.

Runner’s Toe

The repetitive pounding of the toes up against the tips of your running shoes can result in a black toenail, known as runner’s toe. This is caused by bleeding under the toenail. If this occurs, you should check that your running shoes fit properly and that your toenails are trimmed short. Over time it should resolve. In the meantime, we recommend our All Gel Toe Cap and our Gel and Fabric Toe Cap, both of which slip over the end of the toe to provide cushioning and protection for hurting toes.

If you experience foot pain after starting a running program, see your Podiatrist. We have many products to help increase comfort while exercising. To see a complete listing of all our products, view our online catalog. You can easily order any of our products online through our website or contact us by calling: (866) FOOT-PAD (366-8723).