How to Prevent Heel Pain When Running
"Heel pain is a common complaint among new runners, but it can be managed with a few precautions and need not keep you off your feet," says Joanie Greggains, TV and KGO Radio fitness expert and author of "Fit Happens."
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Instructions
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Replace your athletic shoes every six months if you exercise three times a week, and every three months if you exercise daily.
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Avoid inclines, which are more jarring to the heel.
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Stretch your calf muscles before and after exercise, or twice daily if you already have heel pain.
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Stretch your Achilles tendon and your ankles.
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Cushion your walk by putting heel pads (available in drugstores) in your shoes.
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Consult a doctor if pain persists.
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Tips & Warnings
Ask your physician about tension night splints. A study showed they kept calf muscles from tightening up at night and causing morning pain.
