With marathon training season coming our way, many runners will experience foot injuries and aches along the way. Finding the proper shoe and paying mind to running habits will reduce and identify pain; massaging and stretching the feet can especially eliminate the foot pain problem. Stretching your feet should be done without shoes on to get the best results and relief. Ignoring foot pain will only increase problems later on making it important to take the proper measures in reducing the pain.

Being the backbone of the body, the feet carry your entire weight and can easily become overexerted, causing cramps and pain. As with any body part, stretching your feet can serve many benefits. From increasing flexibility to even providing some pain relief, be sure to give your feet a stretch from time to time. This is especially important for athletes or anyone performing aerobic exercises, but anyone experiencing foot pain or is on their feet constantly should also engage in this practice.

Good ways to stretch your feet are:

• Crossing one leg over the others and carefully pull your toes back. Do 10-20 repetitions and repeat the process for each foot
• Face a wall with your arms out and hands flat against the wall. Step back with one foot and keep it flat on the floor while moving the other leg forward. Lean towards the wall until you feel a stretch. Hold for 30 seconds and perform 10 repetitions for each foot
• Be sure not to overextend or push your limbs too hard or you could risk pulling or straining your muscle

Individuals who tend to their feet by regular stretching every day should be able to minimize foot pain and prevent new problems from arising.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Media, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technology to treat your foot and ankle needs.

Read more about stretching the feet.