Foot Pain When Working Out

Working out places a tremendous amount of stress on your feet. With 26 bones, 33 joints and 100 tendons, muscles and ligaments, foot ailments are very common among active individuals. Research by the American Podiatric Medical Association shows that nearly 3/4 of Americans will experience foot problems in their lifetimes. Foot pain does not have to mean the end of your workout routine. However, it is important to pay attention to your body -- feet included -- while exercising.

Conditions

There are a number of foot conditions and injuries that can occur as the result of working out. Working out can cause athlete's foot, which is a fungus that attacks the feet. This fungus is generally spread through public locker rooms. Blisters are often the result of ill-fitting shoes. Blisters need to be covered with an antiseptic and bandaged. Blisters that are not taken care of an result in infection. Corns and calluses can also occur as the result of friction and pressure on the feet. This is also often the result of ill-fitting shoes. Working out may also cause heel pain. This occurs from excessive walking, running or jumping. Working out can also cause overuse injuries such as stress fractures or tendinitis, an inflammation of the tendons in the foot.

Visiting a Doctor

Before you begin working out, it is always recommend that you consult a physician to ensure you are in good health. Consult a podiatric physician if you have diabetes or are planning to begin a running program. Also visit a foot doctor if you experience pain that does not subside with rest or believe you have a foot infection or have acquired a foot fungus. Ignoring foot pain can lead to a host of other problems, including knee, hip and lower back pain. According to the American Podiatric Medical Association, there are more than 300 foot conditions. Ignoring a foot problem can lead to permanent disability and prevent you from being able to work out at all.

Footwear

Appropriately fitting shoes are extremely important when it comes to working out. Podiatrists recommend sturdy shoes that are composed of leather or canvas tops. The soles of your shoes should be flexible. There should be plenty of room for your toes, adequate arch support and proper cushioning. With the large number of fitness shoes on the market, it is a good idea to have your shoes fitted at a specialty store; if you are a runner visit a running shoe store. You can also take your shoes to a podiatrist for examination. A podiatrist can also help to recommend the type and style of shoe best suited for your activity level. Always replace your shoes as they become worn.

Stretching

Stretching is essential to any work out program. Stretching helps prevent pain and injury as you work out. Stretch for five to 10 minutes before beginning your regular workout, according to the National Academy of Sports Medicine. You can complete heel walking, toe walking, towel grabs, pencil lifts, toe extensions, toe spreads, writing the ABCs with your toes and ankle circles to help strengthen and increase the range of motion in your feet.