Running in cheap sneakers causes plantar fasciitis

I have always considered physical fitness a priority in my life.

Running is definitely one of my favorite types of workouts. While I was in high school, I joined the track and cross-country teams. In college, I frequently ran at the track or around the perimeter of campus for enjoyment and to keep in shape. Once I graduated, bought a house and began my job, money was limited. I was finding it difficult to pay off student loans and manage rent, car payments, insurance along with living expenses. It was a very stressful period in my life. I found that running was the perfect opportunity to think, focus and feel better about myself. I fell into the habit of running anywhere between ten and fifteen miles every day. I was in the best shape of my life. I felt fit, healthy and strong. I had a ton of stamina and could run forever. I was steadily increasing the pace of my runs. However, because of my lack of money, I bought a cheap pair of sneakers. They weren’t designed to be used as running shoes. It didn’t take long before I began having some issues with my feet. With each step, it seemed as if the bottom of my foot was tearing wide open. The pain stretched from the balls of my feet to my heels. It became so excruciating that I could hardly walk. The pain often woke me up in the middle of the night. I finally went to a podiatrist who told me that I was suffering from plantar fasciitis. She said that I needed to give myself a rest and start icing them several times per day. She recommended taking ibuprofen every couple hours. She was sure that if I treated my feet properly, I would get back to the point where I could run again. It was a long time before my feet were healthy. I purchased special inserts for my shoes and bought an expensive pair of running sneakers.

 

Body Wellness Center