Forget the foot pain associated with running. Dr. Danielle Shaper of Finesse Footcare offers these tips and a revolutionary remedy to help keep you moving

By Patricia Nugent

As a big proponent of daily exercise, podiatrist Dr. Danielle Shaper of Finesse Footcare does everything possible to keep her patients walking, running and hiking.

“The body of research related to the short- and long-term benefits of exercise is overwhelmingly positive, from stronger bones, muscles and joints; to lower risk for obesity, diabetes and cancer; increased metabolism and better mood thanks to the rush of ‘feel-good’ hormones,” she says.

Unfortunately, one of the very few downsides to running is how hard it can be on your feet. Each heel strike produces a force that’s three to four times a person’s body weight. Over time, this can produce both chronic issues, such as Achilles tendinitis and plantar fasciitis, as well as acute injury, including stress fracture or breaks in the delicate metatarsal bones.

“This time of year, when people begin a walking or running program, or are switching from indoor treadmill running to the outdoors, I see an uptick in injuries,” says Dr. Shaper. “I caution people to start slow and gradually build up your distance and speed. It’s also smart to do a stretching regimen for your feet as well as the rest of your body before and after a run or walk. It helps muscles, joints and tendons warm up and then recover.”

What’s the Best Running Shoe?
To prevent injury, Dr. Shaper says investing in a good, supportive running shoe is imperative.

“You need to protect ligaments, tendons, muscles and bones,” she adds. “I recommend going to a store that sells only running shoes, so you have an expert looking at your feet and find the right shoe for the surface you will be running on, whether concrete, gravel or trail running.”

One thing to look for is a little flexibility in the forefoot and big toe to allow you to push off.

In addition to a good-quality shoe, she also recommends custom orthotics inserts to improve the biomechanics of the foot for the optimum position for running and walking. They further serve to prevent injuries, as well as improve performance.

If it’s too late for prevention and you’re suffering from heel pain, Dr. Shaper offers a treatment called Radial Shockwave Therapy, which has been quite effective in her patients.

“It works in sync with the body’s own natural healing processes to encourage tissue regeneration,” she explains. “I use a handheld wand with electro-magnetic force to transfer energy to soft tissue. It heals inflamed tissue by increasing circulation on a cellular level and boosting the immune system’s response.”

Running Words to the Wise
Dr. Shaper offers sound advice for safe running:

• Dress appropriately for the weather. “Even though your body temperature heats up when running, you need to dress for the temperature outside.”

• Change your shoes every six months. “With wear and tear, the structure of the shoe breaks down and doesn’t do its job supporting your foot.”

• Hydration is key. “If you don’t drink enough fluids, you’ll get cramping.”

Dr. Shaper treats most foot and ankle issues, ranging from ingrown toenails to bunions, heel pain, hammertoes, corns, warts, calluses and sprained ankles, offers diabetic footcare, sports medicine and surgery.

Finesse Footcare is located at 5035 Mayfield Road in Lyndhurst. Same-day appointments are often available. The practice accepts a wide variety of insurance plans. Call 216-382-8070 or visit FinesseFootcare.com for more information.