American Podiatric Medical Association’s Recommendations for Choosing Proper Athletic Shoes

BETHESDA, Maryland, 2001 -- There are many ways to experience a rush, but none quite like the feeling after you’ve exercised. Running, walking, tennis, basketball -- whatever sport it may be -- it’s all about endurance. Finding a rhythm and maximizing your body’s capabilities is the end result. But, many fitness-conscious individuals lack basic foot health awareness and tend to neglect their feet.

According to the Attitudes Toward Foot Care 2000 Study conducted by the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA), nearly 60 percent of the respondents claimed to have foot problems in the past year. The APMA has provided helpful facts for exercise-enthusiasts so they choose the appropriate shoe for the appropriate sport.

RUNNNING

• Running shoes should have extra cushioning or padding impact.
• Running shoes should have maximum overall shock absorption.
• Running shoes should have good heel control.

Helpful Hints: The above qualities help to prevent shin splints, tendinitis, heel pain, stress fractures and other overuse syndromes.

The most common pain associated with running is known as runner’s knee -- a catch-all for jogging-related knee pain. One of the most common causes of runner’s knee is excessive pronation, or rolling in and down, of the foot. Arch supports/shoe inserts can alleviate the problem.