Aug 24, 2010 11:32 AM
Outer left foot cramping up along the side? Help and thanks! :)
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The outside edge of my left foot has started cramping up on EVERY walk or run, whether it's on the treadmill or outside. It happens within the first 5 minutes. It's not (yet) debilitating, and I've been able to walk through it most of the time, but it's getting worse every time.
I was fitted for these shoes at the end of May. They are verrrry good shoes from the local specialty running/shoe (Gribbles) store (not a chain), and until recently they were perfect and felt great. I have no other injuries; in fact, my knees are much better than they were months ago. My right foot has a 'little' of the same pain, but I hardly notice it.
I am still using good socks, and wearing good shoes. These shoes don't have that many miles on them, or wear.
I have tried taking time off from walking....no change. I have tried walking every day....no change.
Is there a fairly inexpensive way to remedy this, if any of you have experience with it?
Thanks in advance!!
Christina
Only your left foot is hurting. Are your feet the same size (length and width), if not take a look at Size matters when selecting shoes - Asymmetrical Shoe Size. A simple method to confirm that your feet at the same foot size, is to put your heels to the wall, heel together, toes together and look down at the toes to see if they are the same size.
Damien Howell PT, DPT, OCS - www.damienhowellpt.com
Good points by Damien.
I wanted to ask if these new shoes are "Motion Control" shoes. If so, they might be easier on the knees, but also harder on some muscles of the lower leg and foot, if they restrict the natural movement or "roll" of your foot.
I think it's your shoes.
If you are only running in one pair, you are repeatedly stressing your feet, ankles, knees and hips the same way everytime you run. I strongly recommend that you go back to the store and get properly fitted in another pair of shoes that are different -- even a different brand.
You might also want to try neutral, or cushioned, shoes. The location of your foot pain suggests that your shoes are working too hard to keep you from pronating, thus pushing your left foot out. DON'T PAY ATTENTION TO STANDARD SHOE GUIDES! I have low arches, yet have had far more trouble wearing stability shoes than neutral. Further, my favorite shoes, Mizuno Wave Rider 13s, supposedly don't have enough cushioning for me due to my size (Clydesdale).
In the meanwhile, try icing your foot during the day after you run.
Good luck!

Surfing Vol
"Victory through attrition!"
Charleston Half-Marathon 1/15/2011 -- 1:52:03
The Scream! Half-Marathon 7/16/2011 -- 1:56:00
Thanks y'all!
I'll be going to Gribbles soon, I think! ![]()
Christina
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