treatment for plantar fasciitis

Effective Ways for Runners to Deal With Flat Feet


A healthy human foot is an impressive thing. With a strong arch distributing the force of impact all across the structure, a foot in good condition can absorb some real abuse, allowing top runners to go for dozens of miles at a time. Unfortunately, not every foot is endowed with this ability. Instead, the feet of some people lack enough in the way of stress-dispersing arch, a problem that can make running far less enjoyable.

For those with overly flat feet, overpronation tends to be the rule, and it almost always causes issues. What this means is that, instead of a healthy, strong arch directing the force of a runner's impacts in productive ways, the foot collapses inward with each stride. That leads to the heel of the foot absorbing the brunt of every strike, a problem that almost invariably results in heel pain over time and often causes even more pointed problems.

Even for those with the flattest of feet, though, there are often good ways of improving the situation. Running shoes that are designed to counteract excessive pronation often make a big difference, supporting the foot so that it does not collapse inward in normally harmful ways.



Most such shoes are simply built up more along their inner edges than is usual for footwear designed for running. That extra material ensures that the foot will remain relatively level all throughout the course of an impact, helping to better distribute the forces that arise.

For some runners, even these measures will not be enough. In these cases, special foot beds and orthotics can be used to accomplish much the same thing in an even more effective way. Typically custom made to fit the contours of a particular runner's feet, these specialized accessories help many runners enjoy the sport without pain or long-term problems.

While not every runner will be gifted with feet that are naturally suited to the activity, then, there are often effective ways of shoring up any weaknesses. With running being such a rewarding and health-enhancing activity, that is good news for people everywhere, even for those whose feet are not naturally so impressive.