Preparation is Key

It’s the most wonderful time of the year- racing season!
Many of you here in Charleston are beginning your rigorous training schedules for 5ks, 10ks, halves and full marathons. It’s hard to resist the urge to get outside and run as the weather turns nice, but we suggest you make sure your feet are race ready before hitting the pavement. Preparation is always key.

1- Get the right equipment.
This doesn’t mean buying the most expensive, professional running gear, but we always suggest investing in new shoes (or being refitted to make sure yours are correct for your feet) and grabbing some drifit/moisture wicking socks to prevent prolonged moisture as well as blisters.

2- Visit a podiatrist for pre-competition evaluations.
Making sure you don’t have any pre existing conditions is huge, especially when training for a longer endurance event. Discussing your foot form, running strides and any current issues can help Dr. Brown or Dr. Saffer direct you on the best path for safe training.

3- Utilize our Pre and Post Race Physical Therapy.
Strengthening specific muscles and muscle groups as well as proper stretching is vital to not only a successful race day, but also to injury free training.

For upcoming races around Charleston visit here.

Looking for a destination race? Visit here. 

Barefoot: Safe or Sorry?

It is summertime in Charleston. Weather is warm, sun is shining and the grass is plush and green- so the question remains… do we really need shoes?

Like so many other questions there isn’t one simple conclusive answer. 

Many studies today are promoting ‘earthing’- the practice of walking barefoot on natural surfaces, such as sand, soil, grass etc.  “Early studies are showing that the health benefits come from the relationship between our bodies and the electrons in the earth. The planet has its own natural charge, and we seem to do better when we’re in direct contact with it,” via MindBodyGreen.com.

Aside from the natural link of walking barefoot, doing so can also expose your feet to substantial injury, infections and bacteria. Also, walking barefoot at the beach can expose your feet to burns from the sand or pavement.

Since the age of man the invention of shoes has decreased the function of the feet. Meaning that the first humans’ feet were more durable, less sensitive and tougher in structure- by shoeing feet our general foot structure has evolved over time to need more support and protection.

Being barefoot is freeing and, when done safely, is completely okay. However the idea that we can go shoeless as our ancestors did is not realistic.  

When going barefoot remember these tips:

- Wear sunscreen on your feet

- Properly bandage any open wounds or scrapes (or wear shoes until wounds are healed to avoid infections)

- Avoid going barefoot in extra germy environments such as public pools, waterparks and docks (always clean & dry feet well before putting shoes back on)

- Wear shoes on any rough surfaces such as pavement, cement, splintery docks and so forth

More Tips for Healthy Feet

Trim toenails straight across, but not too short. Be careful not to cut nails in corners or on the sides; this can lead to ingrown toenails. Persons with diabetes, poor circulation, or heart problems should not treat their own feet, because they are more prone to infection.

Make sure that your shoes fit properly. Purchase new shoes later in the day when feet tend to be at their largest, and replace worn out shoes as soon as possible.
Select and wear the right shoe for each sport or activity that you are engaged in (e.g., running shoes for running).

Alternate shoes—don't wear the same pair of shoes every day.

Avoid walking barefooted. Your feet will be more prone to injury and infection. At the beach or when wearing sandals always use sunblock on your feet.

Be cautious when using home remedies for foot ailments. Self-treatment may turn a minor problem into a major one.

If you are a diabetic, please contact our office and schedule a check-up at least once a year.