Hyper mobile feet!

[Gillma]

Just had my first visit in years to a podiatrist- apparently I have hyper mobile FEET. He bent my big toe up and waggled my heels and it’s all a bit loose. Could explain my occasional Bambi-esque wobbliness and aching feet muscles which have to work hard to keep me flat and securely moving forward. But he was supportive of jogging - in moderation and on the springy turf of the downs (watching for rabbit holes one of which ended his own marathon running) and approved of my flexible calves and hamstrings. He fixed my ingrowing toenail and spotted a verruca.

I have new found admiration for podiatry and foot muscles.

[Hidden]

You could start doing tricks with your feet. Maybe join the circus?

[MrNiceGuy]

Care and maintenance of the feet remains important, not least for those who run regularly, to ensure that the strength of soft tissue (muscles, ligaments tendons) is retained. You only have to consider how often threads relating to foot injuries appear upon on the forum.

In general terms, most people don't show any consideration towards their feet until they begin to cause them discomfort and since running is especially hard upon them, blistering and sore, irritated skin aside, the feet ought to receive a similar level of attention in terms of strength conditioning that may be enjoyed by the legs, core and back, for example.

Although the hypermobility of your big toes and heel may always leave you at greater risk of injury and general aches, strengthening the connective tissue should certainly assist with balance, allowing you to stride with greater confidence.

[Gillma Graduate in reply to MrNiceGuy]

Thanks @MrNiceGuy - I guess you have some experience in foot health?

[MrNiceGuy in reply to Gillma]

As a runner of over 20 years, I learned a long time ago just how important it is to ensure that the feet don't go neglected, in terms of strength conditioning and care of the skin and nails.

[Gillma Graduate in reply to MrNiceGuy]

yes, thanks - makes sense

[Mummycav Administrator Graduate]

Sounds like your feet are good to go after their MOT!! Hope it makes a difference to your aches & pains 😉