We only get one pair. We hope they never go flat. No, I’m not talking about your new tubular race wheels. Of course, I’m talking about your feet. How you care for them now will determine greatly how and if you are able to perform.
Simple Solution #1
Replace your running shoes more often than the recommended 400 miles.
Simple Solution #2
Use inexpensive soft orthotics. Spending $30-$50 will save your feet some serious stress, even in your race shoes. If you use orthotics, be careful to back off on shoes that correct for pronation and add lots of stability. Combining a neutral shoe with an orthotic with arch and heel support reduces the need for an overly corrective shoe.
Simple Solution #3
Ladies: never, ever wear high heels again! Do you want to be fast or have deformed toes and feet? Bunions, corns, hammer toe . . . high heels are pretty, but they mangle your feet so badly that one may have difficulty walking later in life. Think flat. Think support. It’s another fashion challenge, I know, but well worth the effort.
Simple Solution #4
If you already suffer from plantar fasciitis, shin splits, heels spurs, flat feet, or black toes, you need to get help with them. It is possible to run again. You just need the right support in your corner.
Unlike your race wheels, when you damage your foot you can’t just buy a new one. But feet can be rebuilt. Check out the professionals in this issue for answers to these tough problems.
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Joshua Stevens, D.C., is a holistic chiropractor in Chapel Hill and Durham, where he uses chiropractic, acupuncture, detoxification, nutrition, and cold laser therapy with patients. A former triathlete, Dr. Josh has competed in two Ironman races, Florida and Lake Placid. Currently, he focuses on racing cyclo-cross and mountain bikes-much easier!
