Minor Foot Problems : Running Injuries

Most runners suffer from minor foot complaints from time to time due to the constant friction of the feet rubbing against running shoes, ill-fitting footwear and excess sweating. This can cause minor afflictions such as blisters, veruccas and Athlete’s foot, which can be uncomfortable, irritating and interfere with training.

Blisters

A blister is a small pocket of fluid that collects on the outer layer of the skin, usually on the toes and sole of the foot. The blister pocket contains a clear fluid called serum, but can sometimes be filled with pus if it becomes infected. Blisters can be very painful and are caused by friction from running shoes and excess sweating. They usually occur when running shoes are new and haven’t been broken in, or if the shoes you are wearing are not appropriate for running.

Prevention for Blisters

Ensure your running shoes fit properly and are appropriate for running. Lubricating your feet with talcum powder or Vaseline will help to reduce friction.

Treatment for Blisters

Blisters that are not too painful should be left to heal naturally, as they will eventually pop and the fluid will drain from them. If the blister is too painful to put up with, you should drain the fluid by with a needle that has been sterilised in boiling water for 5-10 minutes. You should then apply an antiseptic cream to the area and cover it with a plaster.

Verrucas

A verruca is a type of wart that can form anywhere on the foot. If a verruca appears on the sole of the foot, your body weight can push it into the foot, which can be painful. Broken or damaged skin is more susceptible to being infected by the human papiloma virus that causes verrucas. Excessive sweating in running shoes creates a moist, warm environment that increases the risk of a verruca forming.

Prevention for Verrucas

There are many products available to help combat excess sweating in the feet, which will decrease the risk of verrucas forming.

Treatment for Verrucas

A doctor or pharmacist will be able to advise you on the best type of gel or cream to use to treat the verruca.

Athlete’s Foot

Athlete’s foot (or tinea pedis) is an irritating skin condition that causes very dry, itchy lesions to form, usually between the toes. It can sometimes spread across the whole foot and cause an uncomfortable burning sensation. It is caused by poor foot hygiene and excess sweating of the feet.

Prevention for Athlete’s Foot

Washing your feet and changing your socks after you have been running are the best things you can do to prevent Athlete’s foot.

Treatment for Athlete’s Foot

Lamisil cream is very effective in treating Athlete’s foot, but you must ensure you maintain good foot hygiene to prevent the condition from returning.