Getting Help With My Toes

2 Foot-Related Solutions For Runner's Knee Pain

8 June 2016

Arianna Nguyen

People who run often suffer from knee pain, which is called patellofemoral pain. Orthotics and other devices can sometimes help reduce the pain. However, there are other measures that you can take to help alleviate runner's knee pain. Here are two of them that are also related to your feet:

Running Barefoot

People in foreign countries where shoes are not deemed a necessity may run barefoot regularly. Without a shoe, the front or mid-area of your foot has a tendency to strike the ground first. This pattern seems to reduce the amount of patellofemoral stress. In fact, it has been shown and that the stress incurs a reduction of 12 percent for runners who have no symptoms. Nevertheless, this style of running is associated with other concerns.

As a person runs barefoot, the stress on the calf muscles and the Achilles tendon may actually increase. As a result, if you choose to run barefoot to alleviate your knee pain, be sure to start slowly. Over time, the calf and the Achilles tendon will gradually make the necessary adjustments. Be sure to only run on grassy or dirt surfaces or on artificial turf so that the ground is somewhat pliable beneath your bare feet.

Select Great Running Shoes

Your running shoes can alleviate much of the stress that is placed on the knees during your runs. Here are a few tips to observe as you purchase shoes for running:

Great Support

A shoe that is too loose or that has poor arch support can keep your feet in an unstable position  as you run. This can misalign your body and make it more likely for you to twist or otherwise injure your knee joint.

To make sure that your shoes fit properly, only purchase your running shoes in the evening after your feet have swelled to their largest size of the day. Then, look for a shoe that fits snugly around your foot. Some running shoes even have additional side supports that tighten or loosen as you pull the shoe strings.

Adequate Cushioning

Without enough cushioning in the insoles of a shoe, much of the impact felt by your feet is relayed to your knees. This can be especially problematic if you run on concrete, asphalt or other hard surfaces.

There are many shock absorbent running shoes available nowadays. Some even include gel for greater shock absorbency and perfect fit.

To learn more ways to alleviate your runner's knee pain, schedule a consultation with Dr. Lisa M. Schoene or another physician in your area. 

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