Athletics Question

Riquelme Riquelme Joined: 27/05/2007 Posts: 2 Favourite Category: Athletics

Running problem

Tue 22/07/08 21:06

I developed shin splints four years ago (not my problem), which I didn't experience again after stopping running. Starting regular running again recently saw the niggling pain slowly creeping in again, so I went out and purchased some proper running shoes.

First off, I'd like to say that the running shoes seem perfectly comfortable. They headed off the problem before it could get any worse.

The actual problem - About 3-4 miles into each run my feet are starting to go numb. My left one goes first, the right one following soon after.

I've always been under the impression that you're supposed to tie your running trainers as tight as you can, to ensure that your legs aren't taking the impact each time you plant your foot on the tarmac, which I do. I was always told on a training course that I shouldn't be able to slide a finger between your heel and the trainer.

When I say my feet go numb, I mean I can't feel them unless I stop and let the feeling slowly come back. Am I tying them a little too tight (cutting off the blood)? Do I need running socks, not regular ones that only carry a sporty name?

3 answers

 

Athletics Answers

joggerjayne joggerjayne Joined: 16/04/2008 Posts: 9357 Favourite Category: ChatterBank

Tue 22/07/08 22:42

You shouldn't be able to slide your finger in the back, that's certainly true. If you had that much space, your shoe would move when you planted your heel, and you'd rub the skin off the back of your ankle.

The tight tie-up doesn't sound good. The laces should tie evenly all the way up. If the top of the opening either splays or bunches, then the shoe isn't the right size, or maybe not the right shape for your foot. Your shoe should fit without having to lace it tightly. If you have to do that, you might be getting 'squeeze' around the hard bits of your foot, especially along the top. That could restrict the circulation, and may account for the numbness.

It's worth having some running socks. They will help your feet stay cool - heat causes swelling, which won't help your numbness. You can get them with extra strength around the heel and toe. Don't wear those towelly ones that have sports company logos on them, if those are what you mean.

Most of my running is on sand, and in shallow water, so my shoes (and feet) take a real pounding. Getting the right gear makes a big difference. It doesn't have to be expensive - just carefully chosen and properly fitted.

Question Author: Riquelme Riquelme Joined: 27/05/2007 Posts: 2 Favourite Category: Athletics

Wed 23/07/08 03:03

Thanks for the answer, much appreciated.

The trainers I bought do have a little bit of extra space, though not enough for my foot to be sliding about dramatically with every step.

I think the lacing could well be the problem. Unlike casual trainers that I've purchased in the past, these trainers came with what appeared to be suitable lacing. There was some strain at the top row of the laces, as if there was a line cutting across my ankle (which I probably should have mentioned to begin with).

Anyway, after reading your advice about how it should fit without being too tight, I laced them up a different way. The feeling of a line cutting across my ankle appears to have gone. I'll now see if I can run without getting the feeling of my foot needing to be amputated.

Again, thanks.

joggerjayne joggerjayne Joined: 16/04/2008 Posts: 9357 Favourite Category: ChatterBank

Wed 23/07/08 11:45

Fingers crossed, Riquelme.

Go out there and get sweaty, I say.

ps. Have you fed the laces downwards through the holes, instead of up? It makes each "cross" of the laces grip a bit more firmly. I don't like it like that, but it's another thing that's worth a try, although hopefully youll be okay now.

Happy running.