Whether you’re running a casual 5k at your local park, or training for an intense ultra marathon along the coast, it’s important to keep your feet fit and healthy. The way you look after your feet can have a huge impact on comfort, wellbeing and your overall performance. ‘Runner’s feet’ is a term commonly used to describe a wide-ranging number of foot issues, which, as the name suggests, are often caused by running. From short-term ailments such as common blisters and calluses, to more long-lasting and painful conditions such as plantar fasciitis and metatarsalgia, there are a number of foot-related issues that can be caused by running. Scholl offers a wide range of foot care products perfect for runners, as well as plenty of ways to make running just a little bit more friendly for your feet. For pre-run, mid-training and post-race, see how Scholl can help you on your running journey. Here’s our top ten Scholl foot care products to help prevent or alleviate runner’s feet: To increase blood circulation and achieve healthy smooth skin, use Scholl ExpertCare File and Smooth 2-in-1 Electronic Foot File System weekly for effortless exfoliation. Restore dry skin and prevent calluses and cracked heels with our range of intensely hydrating and diabetic-friendly Scholl PediMasks. To revive cracked heels and dry skin in 7 days, with visible results in one day, try our podiatrist-recommended and diabetic-friendly Scholl Eulactol Heel Balm Gold. It hydrates, softens and smooths to get those feet prepared for race day. Remove calluses and hard skin build up (and achieve race-ready feet!) with Scholl ExpertCare Hard Skin Remover Foot File. Those with tired and achy feet during long tough runs will benefit from using Scholl GelActiv Sport insoles for added shock absorption, cushioning and odour control. For specific foot, back and leg pain, Scholl orthotics can help to alleviate mild pain and pressure on race day. If you’re worried about irritated or broken toenails and sore, rubbing toes, using a Scholl Toe & Finger Gel Protector can work wonders. Help reduce inflammation and improve circulation post run with Scholl Travel & Compression Socks. Blisters do happen from time to time. Keeping Scholl Blister Plasters in your running pack can help alleviate pain and discomfort. Feel confident in taking your shoes off (pre or post-run) with Scholl Fresh Step Antiperspirant Foot Spray. Preventative foot care for runner’s feet Preparing your feet for running multiple times a week is just as important as fuelling your body with the right food. You can’t run without fuel, and you can’t run without healthy feet either. Your feet take a huge amount of force with each step, and so a simple foot care routine could make a huge difference. For example, exfoliating your feet can not only help with blood circulation but, when paired with a quality foot cream, ensures maximum absorption to hydrate and restore the skin. Using an electric foot file or a manual foot file can both help you on your way to smoother feet. Pair hard skin removal with hydration boosting foot cream for daily use, foot masks for pampering, and heel balm for cracked heels, and your feet will be ready to pound paths, roads and trails in no time. Foot care for run training and race day There’s nothing worse than picking up an injury during a training period, and experiencing any discomfort on race day can really affect your intended goal time and overall enjoyment. During training periods, it’s a good idea to test products that might help with tired and aching feet on race day. Insoles can offer shock absorption and additional cushioning, helping to prevent runner’s feet by alleviating any unnecessary pressure and force with every step. Scholl GelActiv® Insoles are designed to fit into sports shoes and are made with revolutionary Gel Wave™ technology that act like tiny springs to absorb shock and new top cloth designs to keep feet odour-free, dry and cool all day. When you’re preparing for race day, keep in mind that injuries aren’t limited to when you are training. It’s always a good idea to give your feet some extra cushioning when you’re working and doing everyday activities too. For those already experiencing foot problems, changing your running goals doesn’t have to be the case. Our In-Balance® Arch Pain Relief Orthotic can help to reduce pressure for those suffering with a flattening arch, and the In-Balance® Heel Pain Relief Orthotic reduces pressure on ligaments and tendons to help relieve heel pain to ensure that you can go that extra distance. Plantar fasciitis is a common overuse injury found in runners. The plantar fascia is responsible for maintaining the integrity of the longitudinal arch, becoming irritated, inflamed or torn by repetitive stresses placed upon it. Scholl’s Pain Relief Plantar Fasciitis Orthotics is a full-length insole with additional heel and arch support that helps alleviate mild pain associated with the initial stages of Plantar Fasciitis. Long distance runners can suffer from a number of runner’s feet issues, though perhaps most commonly is toes rubbing against one another or inside a shoe. Equally, toenails have been known to fall off over long distances, and so providing them with protection in the form of a toe protector can help avoid that happening. Post-race foot care for runner’s feet You’ve done it. You’ve crossed the finish line, and the feeling is sweet. But your feet are not. Rest is now your friend, and we’ve got the products to help you on your way to recovery. For long-distance runners, compression socks can help to reduce muscle damage, inflammation, and improve circulation - therefore helping with muscle recovery. Hopefully, you won’t have suffered from too many blisters, but blister plasters can provide immediate relief and help them on their way to recovery. Your running shoes are likely to have taken a bit of a beating throughout your running journey. Breathe a bit of life back into your shoes with Scholl Fresh Step Shoe Spray. Wherever you are in your running journey, make sure to look after your feet, and the rest will take care of itself!
Sore feet as a result of running, sports or exercise can be frustrating - both as a physical pain and as a knock to your confidence. Finding and settling into a good foot care routine helps to prevent soreness, aches and injury, supporting you to put your best feet forward in achieving your fitness or sporting goals. Preventing foot pain - Give your feet some TLC Preventing painful and aching feet can start way before your runs and workouts. By incorporating foot care into your daily routine, it can not only support your exercise goals but it can have an impact on the musculoskeletal system overall and potentially reduce injuries. This routine can come in many forms, and because it requires minimal time, equipment and products, creating a routine should be easy to fit into your everyday life. A consistent foot care routine No matter how active you are, maintaining a simple and consistent foot care routine can help ensure your feet stay healthy. Here are some simple ways to create a foot care routine: Regularly exfoliating and moisturising your feet Keeping your nails trimmed Wiggling your toes often to keep them supple Maintaining good foot hygiene Foot strengthening, mobility and stretching The likelihood of sore feet or injury during sports and exercise can be greatly reduced by focusing on building up your foot strength, mobility and flexibility. Our feet have a wide range of movement including pronation, supination, dorsiflexion and plantarflexion. The impact of activities, especially weight bearing sports such as running can exacerbate any abnormalities in these movements. For example, we all need to pronate to walk but when we over pronate, the impact may manifest in pain and discomfort. Not only in the feet but the legs, hips and lower back may be impacted. In simple terms. your feet should be able to take the impact, and bend and flex as needed. Over time, those who run, play sports or exercise a lot can lose some of the flexibility and may experience this. Building and maintaining foot mobility with a regular exercise routine can help reduce this. Examples of feet strengthening exercises to prevent sore feet include toe curls with a towel, calf raises and barefoot walking. Examples of mobility exercises to prevent sore feet include box jumps, big toe exercises and ankle circles. Examples of stretches to help prevent sore feet include an achilles stretch, calf stretch and tibialis stretches. Choose the correct footwear Many people participating in weight bearing activities wear incorrect or badly fitting shoes. This can have a significant impact and is often the root cause of aches and pains. It can often lead to avoidable injuries and longer term conditions such as Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs and shin splints. Everyone’s feet are different, and different activities require different footwear. For running, your feet are taking a huge amount of impact, so the right soles and arch support are crucial. Footwear for hiking is often underrated and simple trainers are not suitable for the different terrains you will encounter. The ankles also need support and a strong pair of walking boots are necessary to protect your feet. Other dynamic sports, such as tennis, volleyball and badminton also need a trainer that will give good support and absorb the pressure from the jumping and landing. By choosing the best footwear, it gives your body the best chance of coping with the additional stresses of impact. Practise correct form Everyone's running style is different. The way your foot moves when it hits the ground to lift off is a complex interaction of movements and signals to the brain to keep us balanced. We do this without even thinking about it. However, our individual foot shapes and running style can have an effect on our feet. To minimise risk of injury or to avoid problems such as plantar fasciitis or achilles tendonitis, we again recommend a visit to your local running store. It is also worth considering a pair of insoles that can redistribute pressure and can best support your feet during both exercises. By considering all these areas, you are more likely to avoid injuries associated with running and other exercise. If you are unsure, speak to a healthcare professional such as a podiatrist. A good way to reduce the risk of pain in your feet after running or working out is to make sure that your form is correct. Having 'correct form' means you're doing the exercise correctly, without creating any movement issues or risk of injury. The way your foot strikes the ground can have an effect on your feet – with some striking techniques increasing the risk of injuries such as plantar fasciitis and calf strains. Again, we recommend visiting your local running store to help assess your running form, or choose a pair of insoles that can best support your feet during both exercise and everyday life. When it comes to form with other exercises and workouts, do your research and ask a professional if you’re unsure. Improper form can lead to both injuries and soreness in your feet and other areas of your body. Warm up, cool down To prevent injuries from your workouts, it is essential that you take a few minutes to warm up and cool down. Many foot pain issues come from damage to the musculoskeletal system. This system includes the interactions of muscles, ligaments and bones, with a main function to provide stability and mobility to the body. To help prevent injuries and reduce delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) from your workouts, it is essential to take a few minutes to warm up and to cool down. It is also recommended that other activities that focus on core strength and flexibility, such as yoga and pilates are incorporated into exercise regimes. This gives the body strength and suppleness and will increase your running performance. Wearing compression socks can help with calf circulation and can prevent sore feet after running. These can be worn before or after your workout or run to help increase blood flow. A general warm up before running or working out is always a good idea to help reduce the risk of post workout soreness. Rest Rest days are essential to all training schedules, whether you are running for fun or training for a marathon. Over training can make you more susceptible to injury and rest is needed for repair. So running every day could end up doing more damage than good. Take at least one day off a week and treat yourself to some foot pampering! Sore feet and exercise – Common issues and how to prevent We’ve discussed preventative measures to help with sore feet after running or working out, but what if issues continue and threaten to prevent you from reaching your fitness goals? Most who lead an active lifestyle will experience some form of foot pain in their lifetime. Here are the most common ailments, and ways you can aid prevention and recovery. Blisters A common issue, and potentially a painful one. Blisters occur when part of your foot rubs against your shoe, causing friction and creating a gap between the skin for some fluid to appear. If your shoes aren’t the correct size for running or working out, then blisters can become a common issue. Blisters are painful, especially if they burst, and can make any movement a challenge. Ensuring your training shoes are the correct fit is the best way to prevent blisters, but if they do happen, Scholl Blister Plasters can help aid a quicker recovery and support you to keep moving while they heal. Plantar fasciitis (sore heels) One of the most common sore foot issues for runners and those who workout is plantar fasciitis. This is caused by damage to the fascia band that runs across the bottom of the foot. It presents as pain, burning discomfort (often in the heel) and especially on those first steps in the morning. Overuse can over time damage the fascia, so preventative stretching in the lower limb will strengthen the structure to avoid this condition. If you are suffering, icing the pain before and after your exercise can help. Additionally, the use of orthotics is a podiatry recommended treatment. Scholl In-Balance® Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotic insoles are clinically proven to absorb impact and provide relief. Achilles tendonitis Though not directly part of your foot, your achilles tendon plays a big part in how your foot moves and operates whilst running and taking part in sport and exercise. For this reason, injuries such as achilles tendonitis can be common in those who lead an active lifestyle. Correctly fitting and appropriate footwear is a must. If you are suffering, icing the injury can help reduce inflammation, and Scholl In-Balance® Heel Pain Relief Orthotic insoles reduce pressure on ligaments and tendons to help relieve heel pain. Hallux rigidis (toe pain) Your big toe is home to the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint, which helps propel you forward as you walk or run. Runners and those who exercise frequently tend to get a stiff MTP joint, which can cause a lot of pain. To prevent this, wear properly fitting shoes that allow your toes to sit comfortably, and rest and ice the joint if necessary. Metatarsalgia Metatarsalgia is a common complaint from runners where the ball of the foot feels like it is burning and/or painful. The continuous impact on the bottom of your foot can cause inflammation. Soft, gel-like insoles can support metatarsalgia, as well as regular stretching and mobility. A combination of these practices can help prevent this issue from causing you sore feet after any form of exercise. Helpful exercises that can allow your feet to recover When you are working towards a fitness or sporting goal, don't let your feet stop you achieving your goals. If you do have aches and pains, try doing some other activities that are not as weight bearing and have less impact on your feet, whilst maintaining your fitness. Swimming Swimming and other water-based exercises take the weight off your feet, whilst still providing a great aerobic activity and full body workout. In fact, swimming has been found to burn more calories than both biking and running per hour, and just like those exercises, is great for your mental health too. Cycling Whether you do it on the road or on an exercise bike in the gym, cycling is a fantastic workout if your feet are feeling sore (unless your pain involves the ankle and calves - in which case, try hand bikes). It’s also a great workout for your legs and helps improve the strength in your quad muscles. Core workouts Sit ups, leg raises, bicycle crunches, planks - core workouts are a fantastic way of getting a sweat on whilst giving your feet the chance to recover. The key takeaway message is: tackle the issue before you experience the pain. Preparing for event day Here at Scholl, we know that preparing for a running race, or other competitive sport, requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that your feet support you every step of the way. We’ve created a list of our top preparation tips for your next competition which you can read here. Scholls products are all underpinned by science and can help you prevent and reduce pain in the feet and lower limbs after running. We have over 100 years expertise and many of our products are podiatry recommended. If you’re looking for a running event this year, head to our events page to see what’s on offer.
Foot cramps can vary from a slight twinge to a debilitating spasm and seemingly hit you at any time. However, there's no one-size-fits-all answer – foot, sole and toe cramps can strike for a variety of reasons. So why does your body decide to spasm? Well, to understand how to fix your foot frustrations, here's a breakdown of why your body cramps how to stop them. Keep hydrated One of the top culprits for foot cramps is dehydration. An afternoon in the sun or an illness might leave your muscles gasping for fluids. Remember, your body is a well-oiled machine that needs adequate hydration to function smoothly. Invest in a reusable water bottle that you can carry with you wherever you go. It's a simple but effective way to prevent cramps. Massage after exercise If you've been pounding the pavement or dancing the night away in your new kicks, your foot muscles may not be your biggest fan. Overexertion and fatigue can trigger cramps. Treat your feet to a luxurious massage. You can use your finger tips coupled with our hydrating Eulactol Heel Balm Gold. Or try it with a foot massager. These devices can knead away tension and improve blood circulation, reducing the likelihood of cramps. You can also try incorporating regular foot stretches into your routine. Yoga straps or resistance bands can help you gently stretch out those tight muscles and prevent cramps from sneaking up on you. Eat a nutritional diet Low levels of potassium, calcium, or magnesium in your diet can lead to muscle cramps, including those in your feet. Bananas, yogurt, and leafy greens are rich in these nutrients - one veggie smoothie on its way. If you decide to take vitamin supplements, make sure you consult with your doctor beforehand. Wear comfy shoes Tight, ill-fitting shoes can be a recipe for disaster. They can squeeze your foot muscles and cut off proper circulation, inviting those cramps to crash the party. Your feet need enough room to move, flex and get you from A to B. Especially if you’re exercising, your feet tend to swell. So comfy shoes with enough room to fit a finger in the heel is key. Say goodbye to those painful stilettos and embrace comfy, supportive shoes. Scholl GelActiv™ Insoles can also provide extra cushioning and support. Talk to your doctor All our tips can help to alleviate your foot cramps but they might not cure you of persistent cramps. Sometimes, underlying medical conditions like diabetes or poor circulation can make you more prone to foot cramps. If you have diabetes make sure you have had your feet checked. If you have cramps, speak to a healthcare professional. You’re not alone in dealing with your foot cramps. And although there are many causes, staying hydrated and treating your feet with love and care can help you. Remember, happy feet lead to a happier you! So go forth, strut your stuff, and let foot cramps be a thing of the past. Related Products Eulactol Heel Balm Gold Scholl GelActiv™ Insoles
What is plantar fasciitis? The plantar fascia is a thick band of connective tissue that runs along the base of the foot, from heel bone to toes.1 The tough, resilient structure helps it maintain the arch of your foot, absorb shock for the entire leg and stabilise the metatarsal joints during impact with the ground2 When this tissue becomes damaged, the clinical term for the condition is Plantar Fasciitis.2 What are the symptoms of plantar fasciitis? Pain tends to start gradually, often just in the heel, but can sometimes be felt along the whole plantar fascia.1,3 Symptoms are normally worse in the morning and mostly after, rather than during activity involving your foot.1 What are the triggers? Plantar fasciitis can develop in people who spend a long time on their feet, either standing, walking, or practicing sports that involve a lot of running and jumping. People with high arches or those with very flat feet can also develop pain in this region.1,3 What causes plantar fasciitis? Some of us may have feet that are more likely to suffer Plantar Fasciitis, but other risk factors include:1,3 Regularly participating in activities like running, basketball, tennis, step aerobics and dancing Working in environments that require spending much of the day on your feet Running on hard ground and undertaking hill training Wearing worn out trainers that no longer support feet from hard impact Pregnancy, which causes temporary weight gain and hormonal muscle relaxants – causing flat feet A burst of activity after a period of inactivity Top tips for avoiding and managing plantar fasciitis Self-treatment initially involves offloading pressure from the plantar fascia to provide relief. Here are some tips that can help with prevention:1,3 Avoid exercising on a hard surface, and resting the foot as much as possible Regularly stretch your calf muscles Choose footwear that are appropriate for your foot type, running style and purpose Try to lose weight if you are overweight Wear shoes with a medium heel (up to 3 cm) and avoid going barefoot or wearing flat shoes Put an ice pack or bag of frozen peas under your heel for up to 20 minutes every few hours Or using Scholl’s Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics Scholl In-Balance® Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics are clinically proven to provide pressure relief to the base of the foot to help alleviate mild pain in the foot between the heel and the arch, known as plantar fasciitis. The insole has been specifically designed by biomechanics experts to provide a 3-in-1 action to help elevate the pain associated with plantar fasciitis. If the above advice doesn’t work and you’re in a lot of pain and discomfort, or finding it difficult to walk, please contact your local healthcare professional for further medical advice. Always read the instructions References Mayo Clinichttps://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/plantar-fasciitis/symptoms-causes/ Bio Med Natural Healthhttps://biomednaturalhealth.com/blog-details/47 NHShttps://www.nhs.uk/conditions/plantar-fasciitis Products Plantar Fasciitis Pain Relief Orthotics
Clean and cover your blister It is best to keep the top layer of the skin over the blister to protect it so most blisters won’t need ‘popping’. However, if it is large or shows signs of infection, a professional may need to treat it and cover it appropriately. For most of us, it is a simple process of checking the blister area is clean, centralising the plaster over the blister to assure the damaged skin does not come into contact with the adhesive and sealing it down so it is smoothed out with no wrinkles. The difference between blister patches and normal plasters Blister patches look much like normal plasters though they feel thicker and have a slightly rubbery texture. Once applied to the skin, however, they behave very differently. Blister patches are specifically designed to aid the healing of a blister and protect it against further friction. The healing and protection process It sounds clever, but how does it actually work? Blister plasters are hydrocolloid and have two layers. The inner material absorbs the excess fluid and forms a gel over the wound. This retains any moisture which may have gathered and a white bubble develops. When the bubble is visible from the outside, it means the blister is healing. The outer layer forms a seal or ‘second skin’ to protect the blister from bacteria and dirt. It is soft, comfortable and breathable. In addition, the moist and insulated environment allows the body’s own enzymes to heal the wound naturally. The benefits of blister patches - pain relief and speedy healing One of the main benefits of using blister patches is that there is instant relief from pain. Because of their flexibility, active gel cushion and strength, the plasters protect against friction between the skin and socks or shoes. Whilst a blister may take a couple of weeks or more to heal, a hydrocolloid plaster can speed up the healing process. With its waterproof and strong adhesive qualities, the plaster can remain in place for a few days until the edges start lifting when hopefully the wound is well on its way to recovery.