Common Runners' Foot Problems

Get information about these foot ailments

Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal infection that thrives in damp sweaty places, like between your toes. You can get athlete's foot by touching the affected area on another person. More often, you can pick it up from damp, contaminated surfaces, such as a locker room floor.

Blisters

While not a serious injury, blisters -- those fluid-filled bubbles of skin on your feet -- can be painful and keep you from running.

Black Toenails

Runners, especially those training for long-distance events, can suffer from black toenails, more properly known as subungual hematoma. It is caused by the toes rubbing up against the front of the running shoe, usually because the shoes are too small. The nail is pushed down into the nail bed, and it becomes bruised and inflamed.

Bunions

Bunions are an enlargement of the big toe joint. Under too much pressure, this joint can swell, causing the bone to stick out on the side of the foot.

Corns

Corns are hard, painful lumps on your feet, and are caused by constant rubbing and pressure from shoes that are too tight.

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is heel pain is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia -- the tough band of tissue that supports the bottom of your foot and connects your heel bone to your toes.

FAQs About Running and Feet

How Do I Keep My Running Shoes from Getting Stinky?

When Should I Replace my Running Shoes?

Can Long Distance Runners Get Pedicures?

Where Should My Foot Strike When Running?