It’s a new year, and many people are getting back to their workouts with renewed focus. When starting an exercise routine, make sure to take the right steps to avoid injury.
SureStep Foot and Ankle Medical Center of Mason exists to serve you if injuries do occur and Dr. Robert M. Brarens has some key advice to help keep you safe.
“Foot pain, like any pain, should not be ignored,” Dr. Brarens explains. “Injuries caught early and treated appropriately generally heal better with less long-term consequences,” he continues.
SureStep Foot and Ankle offers the diagnosis and treatment of a wide-range of long-term medical conditions, sports injuries and common problems of the feet and ankles. Dr. Brarens is also the only pediatric foot and ankle specialist in Cincinnati, Ohio. Their pediatric services include pediatric clubfoot, birth conditions/congenital deformities, pediatric bunions and more.
What recommendations do you have for maintaining proper foot and ankle care while exercising?
“It’s important to provide an environment where your feet can perspire and are ventilated. Appropriate shoe type and shoe fit are paramount to preventing undue harm. A loose shoe will often result in calluses and blisters. A shoe that is too tight can cause trauma to the end of the toes and nails.”
What are some safe stretches that promote foot and ankle safety?
“Do not bounce when you stretch. A stretch performed appropriately and held for 30 seconds has been shown to be more effective than repeated quick bouncing-type stretches. It’s also safer for tendons and their attachments, especially as we age.”
What kinds of shoes should you wear to ensure foot and ankle support while exercising?
“It’s best to wear a shoe that is appropriate for the exercise you’re performing. If you’re hiking you should have a hiking style athletic shoe or boot. When running, you should have an appropriate running shoe. For the most part, a cross trainer will provide more support and stability if performing regular exercises including walking, dance fitness, and circuit or weightlifting.”
What should you do if you're experiencing foot pain when exercising? At what point should you seek medical attention?
“Regular exercisers often have small strains that are self-limiting. If pain is to a level that it is preventing normal walking, is increasing when you exercise, or is associated with bruising and/or swelling, it’s time to seek professional help.”
SureStep Foot & Ankle Medical Center
11821 Mason-Montgomery Rd #4B, Cincinnati 45249
513.489.2400, SureStepFootAndAnkle.com