Post-Run Foot Stretching: Why Do It?

If you love to run, what could be better than a Christmas-themed race around the dressed up streets of downtown Houston, TX? The Houston 12K of Christmas is an event suitable for the whole family, complete with Santa and his elves, carolers, and hot cocoa. All runners are also invited to dress up and be a part of the holiday costume contest – an event you don’t want to miss!

At Houston Foot Specialists, we love helping runners stay in shape and at the top of their game. Part of that is providing treatment when pain arises and offering preventative tips to keep feet healthy. You may do a bit of a cool down after you run, but do you ever stop to stretch your feet? There is a great amount of stress put on feet every time they strike the ground during a run, and keeping them stretched and limber will keep you running longer.

Keep a golf ball or a frozen water bottle handy and after a run, roll your foot back and forth over it to stretch out the ligaments in the arch of your foot. Another stretch is one called a negative calf raise. Step to the edge of a stair with your heels hanging off. Lift one leg and let the heel of the other foot slowly lower below the step. Repeat with the other foot. Last one is a wall push up. Stand facing a wall, and put one foot farther way from the wall. While keeping the back leg straight, bend the front leg and lean into the wall while keeping both heels on the ground. This is a stretch for your Achilles and calf muscles. Hold the stretch for 10 seconds before switching legs and repeat the exercise ten times.

If your running routine has come to a halt because of foot pain, please contact Dr. Jeff Bowman for diagnosis and treatment. Call our office in Houston, TX at (713) 467-8886 to make an appointment today.