You don’t need a lot of equipment to enjoy the benefits of running, and you can frequently find a nice refreshing outdoor venue to run in. There are also indoor tracks at schools and gyms that you can use during inclement weather. Running is a relatively easy and accessible sport. However, it’s imperative to have the proper footwear and do your best to prepare yourself to avoid or minimize any potential injuries.

Injuries that are most often experienced by runners include the following:

• Ankle sprains—Sprains and strains to the ankle are among the most common of injuries. An ankle sprain can be a mild annoyance but can also be so severe that it is difficult or impossible to walk.
• Achilles tendonitis—The largest tendon in your body that runs from your calf muscle to the back of your heel is called the Achilles tendon. Repetitive stress from running and other activities can cause swelling and irritation to this tendon, resulting in pain and discomfort.
• Hairline fractures—are tiny cracks that develop in your bones from repetitive stress that can progress slowly over time. They can become painful sporadically when the foot is moved a certain way.
• Plantar fasciitis—Debilitating heel pain is often one of the first signs that the fibrous tissue that runs along the bottom of your foot has been damaged.

If you experience severe symptoms for several days, schedule an appointment with your podiatrist. At Your Next Step, our team of board-certified foot doctors use advanced technologies and years of experience to diagnose and treat a variety of foot and ankle problems. Common problems include sports injuries, joint pain, toe deformities, nail fungus, chronic tendon pain, and skin problems. Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, and Dr. Aliza V. Eisen provide high-quality foot and ankle care to patients in the greater Philadelphia area. Our offices are conveniently located in Ardmore, Paoli, and Downingtown, PA. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.