According to Paul Williams, owner of Peninsula Runners, those who plan on running should opt for shoes with cushioning. “I think when you have more protection you can run harder and faster, reducing injuries such as shin splints, Achilles tendinitis and knee pain,” he says. It’s important to have properly fitting shoes to treat foot conditions like plantar fasciitis. There are also shoe accessories such as speed laces, compression socks, and foam rollers, all of which can help improve running activity.

The right running shoe is essentially different for every person. If you have any concerns see Dr. Steven Schwartz from Pennsylvania. Our doctor will treat your feet in addition to other podiatric-related needs.

Choosing the Right Running Shoes for Your Foot Type

Running is a physical activity although fun, can put a lot of stress on the joints, bones and ligaments of the body. Injury and stress on the foot can be an important factor on which kind of shoe you’re wearing. Running shoes should be worn based on your foot type. It is important to find out what fits you based on cushioning, stability and motion.

Determining your type

Speak with a shoe specialist or retail professional to see what your foot type is. They will be able to identify and measure your arch type, stride and gait.

Running Mechanics

When you are running or walking in your shoes, every step determines how your foot is landing. Pronation is the natural rolling of your ankle from outside to inside during foot strike.

Pronation is a correct form of walking or running. It helps absorb shock and store energy from your lower extremities. Neutral runners who pronate correctly do not need specific shoes, since they have stability and control.

Over-pronators

Those who run with excessive ankle rolling. Over-pronators tend to have ankles that angle inward, flat feet, and or bowed legs. This can cause a series of injuries: of the knees, ankles and Achilles tendons.

Under-pronation

Under-pronation is less common than over-pronation. This usually happens to those who have inflexible feet and high arches. Even though there is less rotational stress on the ankles and knees, it prevents any kind of shock absorptions. Under-pronation needs shoes with increase in cushion and flexibility.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our offices located in Chambersburg and Mcconnellsburg, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.

Read more about choosing the right running shoe