Physical exercise is critical to living a healthy and productive life. Many people go to the gym to achieve their fitness goals, while others might participate in sports, run, or go for bike rides to stay in shape.
While most physical activities are considered safe when performed correctly, some exercises may still pose a health risk. Foot-related injuries, for instance, can be caused by overworking the feet, failing to stretch before a workout, and wearing shoes that do not fit, along with other factors.
Regardless of the cause, you should be aware of common foot-related injuries when working out. We’ve rounded up some of these injuries in the section below.
Common Exercise-Related Foot Injuries
Whether you are a fitness enthusiast or just getting started, injuries are common problems that can hinder your progress. Here are some of the common foot injuries you should look out for:
- Nerve Issues: These problems are often characterized by shooting or burning pain. Nerve damage in your foot can be caused by exerting too much pressure on the nerves. Certain medications are often used to alleviate the pain. However, if the foot is swollen, surgery may be needed to resolve the issue.
- Tendon Problems: Common tendon problems include inflammation of the toe joints and injury of the big toe ligaments. Once you injure the tendons, they won’t provide the needed support and stability for the arch of your foot. This results in discomfort while standing, swelling, pain, and weakness in the foot and ankle.
- Bone Fractures: A sudden impact on the foot and toe bones can lead to painful fractures. This often occurs due to excessive weight put on the foot. Certain high-impact sports such as gymnastics, dance, and long-distance running can lead to bone fractures.
- Skin Infections: Common skin infections that affect the feet include athlete’s foot and plantar warts. These two conditions are contagious, and you can contract them by walking barefoot in a gym, locker room, or similar high-traffic area.
- Blisters and Arch Pain: Blisters are caused by intense exercises that cause friction between the foot surface and another object. For instance, blisters on your foot may occur due to high friction between your shoes and toes. On the other hand, arch pain or sharp pain in the bottom of the heel could signify potential injury or inflammation issues.
Seeking Professional Help
Most exercise-related problems go away on their own after a period of days or weeks. However, some are severe and may need medical intervention. The proper treatment will always depend on your injury or unique foot problems. It’s always important to seek a professional medical opinion on the severity of your injury before deciding on a course of treatment.
At The Foot Health Center, we offer experienced services to treat foot, ankle, and lower leg problems. Our expert team of medical professionals is committed to helping our patients access comprehensive care that meets their needs. We use the latest technologies to ensure accurate diagnosis and optimal treatment. Reach out to us today, and we’d love to help you walk with ease.