Pain In The Foot And Injuries Due To The Use Of A Treadmill

Pain In The Foot And Injuries Due To The Use Of A Treadmill

Using a treadmill often leads to weight loss, heart training and toning the legs. However, regular use can also cause pain in the foot and even injuries. The likelihood of injury is greater from the start, says Podiatry Today, since most people walk at a rate of no more than 120 steps per minute. This rhythm is greater, sometimes substantially, on a treadmill.

Cause

Pain and foot injuries are common among treadmill users, reports Podiatry Today, mainly due to the increase in the number of repetitive actions generated by the use of this device. Repetition, along with greater inclination and speed, sometimes stretches or stretches the foot beyond its comfort level. When you walk at a normal pace during the day, you take between 90 and 120 steps per minute. The use of a treadmill increases this pace, sometimes substantially, depending on the speed you choose.

Plantar fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common foot problems caused by the use of a treadmill, says Podiatry Today. This condition is a distension or tear in the plantar fascia, which is the band of tissue located along the base of the foot, connecting the heel bone with the fingers. Severe pain, like a pinprick, is one of the symptoms, and is usually the most severe when you stand up to start the day or after sitting or for long periods of time.

Intermetatarsal Neuroma

Intermetatarsal neuroma, also called Morton's neuroma, is another common foot problem caused by the use of treadmills, according to Podiatry Today. This condition develops when the tissue that surrounds the nerve of the ball of the foot hardens and affects the nerve itself, causing pain and even a burning or numb sensation. Morton's neuroma often feels like you have something in your shoes.

Other conditions

Achilles tendinitis is another common problem caused by the use of this device, says Podiatry Today, as is a condition called clubfoot. Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, or the band behind the calf that connects your muscles to the heel. The tendon can go from inflamed to broken by repeated overextension or overuse. The clubfoot is characterized by limited movement of the ankle, reports Foot Health Facts, and the foot is unable to move up. The condition usually develops when the Achilles tendon is particularly tense. Those who suffer from this problem often alter their gait to compensate for the limitation in movement, causing more problems.

Treatments / Solutions

Depending on the severity and the problem, there are several different treatments, says Podiatry Today. Severe conditions often require surgery, while treatment of others includes the combination of rest and rehabilitation. Stretching your plantar fascia and other low muscles before using the treadmill helps reduce injuries, as well as maintaining the tilt at a low angle.

Video Tutorial: How To Avoid Heels and Ankles Injury When Using A Treadmill.

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