Family Race Training: Keeping Kids’ Feet Safe

With summer in full swing, families are out and about enjoying the weather as much as possible. Catching fireflies, eating s’mores by the campfire, and playing Frisbee on the beach are standard activities. Many families boost up their fitness during the summer as well. If your family is into running races, whether 5K’s or mile fun runs, take measures to make sure your children’s feet are staying safe along the way.

There are many running events popping up in which kids can take part, and encouraging their involvement keeps them active while having fun. The risk of injury, though, can increase if you aren’t monitoring their activity level and foot health. Keep their age and fitness level in mind when choosing a race. Pushing too hard, too quickly when race training could lead to a lot of stress on bones that are still growing. Sever’s disease is common among children who are very active, and the heel pain that results can be quite severe. Allow them to start small and work their way up. Pay attention to any complaint of foot or ankle discomfort. It may not be simple “growing pains” but a muscle, tendon, or joint under too much stress. It is also important to fit them with the best shoes possible. Growing feet need to be cushioned and supported in shoes that fit well. Too tight or too loose can both be a problem. Blisters, foot fatigue, or heel and arch problems could arise with the wrong footwear. Give them a shoe suitable for the activity. A standard gym shoe may not be appropriate for running long distances or riding a bicycle.

We care for people of all ages at Dallas Podiatry Works—healthy families everywhere can benefit from our services!  If you and your family have any foot concerns, contact Drs. Joel Brook, Arroyo, and McClurkin for treatment. Call our office in Dallas, TX at 972.853.7100 or in Plano, TX at (972) 943-3323. We’ll help you have fun and stay active this summer.