As an athlete, you train your body to the point of perfection, exercising hours a day and eating only the finest foods. Yet in all your preparation, you might neglect an integral factor in your performance: shoes. Wearing appropriate shoes for your specific sport will improve your running, jumping and agility. More importantly, the proper footwear can also help prevent injury.
Achilles Tendonitis
Competing in flat running shoes can cause the Achilles tendon to stretch beyond its normal range and lead to tendonitis. The pain will worsen over time and intensify when climbing stairs or hills. The tendon itself may swell and become stiff, especially in the morning or after prolonged inactivity. To help prevent the condition, make certain you wear shoes with adequate heel support.
Blisters
Improper footwear can lead to blisters on the feet and toes. When deciding on athletic shoes, ensure the widest part of your foot matches the widest part of the shoe and that you have enough room to wiggle your toes in both standing and sitting positions. The inner seams of the shoe should never rub against your feet. Don't overlook the importance of socks, either. Socks that aren't the right size may wrinkle and rub against the foot, contributing to blister formation.
Plantar Fasciitis
Excessive walking or running in shoes with insufficient arch support can lead to plantar fasciitis, a painful inflammation of the plantar fascia or arch tendon of the foot. The condition causes severe heel pain that often extends into the arch, making simple movements uncomfortable and running or other athletic activities nearly impossible. Athletes often use rest, foot taping and stretching to help treat plantar fasciitis and manage the associated pain.
Shin Splints
Competing in sporting activities while wearing shoes with poor cushioning can lead to shin splits, an inflammation of the sheath surrounding the tibia bone. The condition causes severe pain across the front of the lower leg. To help prevent the condition, make certain you choose shoes with excellent shock absorption. You can even purchase extra shoe inserts to supply additional padding.
Stress Fractures
Similar to shin splints, stress fractures occur when athletes compete in improper footwear over extended periods of time. Running subjects the feet and legs to significant trauma, with the constant pounding often causing tiny fractures in the bones. Wearing shoes with suitable padding and cushioned insoles will help protect against stress fractures.
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