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With winter just around the corner,  It's time to start preparing for your winter runs! At Foot and Ankle Specialists of Utah we get asked questions about running in the colder temperatures all the time. Let's review  some running tips for cold weather.

Starting with your socks. Even in the cold tempertures, your feet will still sweat. It is so important to have moisture wicking socks. Avoid wearing cotton. While cotton is a wonderful natural fabric, cotton lacks the ability to wick moisture away from your feet. Remember, wet feet equal cold feet so thermoregulation is key. One pair of socks is plenty for winter runs. There is no need to wear several layers of socks. If you prefer a thicker sock in the colder months, just make sure the socks wick moisture.

Shoes are so important. Especially living in snowy icy areas. Consider wearing a trail shoe over your usual running shoes. Trail shoes have deeper lugs on the bottom of the shoe and can help with traction. No shoe is totally slip proof so be careful when running on snow. Many trail shoes are waterproof or water-resistant. This option may be helpful in keeping feet dry and allowing more warmth to your feet. If you are running and notice you cannot feel your toes or have pain from the cold stop running at once and get indoors as this could be warning signs of frostbite.

When lacing your shoes, do not lace them too tight. Compressing your feet into shoes can cause decreased circulation and pain. Always ensure you are properly fitted with your winter shoes with the socks you intend to use for running. The shoes may need to be increased in length as well as width to allow for a proper fit. 

For many people, the colder months allow for cross training activities. Cross training is a great way to keep your cardiovascular health and also allow your legs and feet to take a break from the repetition of running. When you cross train, you reduce your risk of running injuries. Check out your local health club or YMCA for alternative cross training activities!

Even though the temps are down, hydration is still important. Carry hydration with you and drink accordingly. Being cold and dehydrated is a dangerous mix!

Remember to warm up slowly when running in the cold. A brisk five to ten minute walk prior to running will help with circulation and allow the body to prepare for the run. 

Get ready for colder temperatures! 

Do you have black toenails? At Foot and Ankle Specialists of Utah we  see many runners that struggle with black toenails. Many runners, especially long distance runners suffer from a discoloration of the toenails.   Although you can get a black toenail from a sudden, painful trauma that causes bleeding under the nail, for runners it’s not typically the case. The dark discoloration for runners is a chronic, repetitive trauma to the nail caused by the foot constantly hitting the front of the shoe. Trauma is caused by short shoes, running downhill, or wearing loose shoes. This repeated trauma is typically not felt by the runner, micro trauma causes a light amount of bleeding and minimal pressure buildup, so little or no pain is felt. Most runners only notice that something is wrong with their nails when they notice a discoloration to their nail. This should not be ignored. The nail can gradually thicken, and you can develop more problems.

As a runner you need to make sure you have properly fitted shoes, and that the shoes are made to compensate for your natural gait cycle. It is so important to invest in your shoes! However, a better running shoe may not always solve the problem. If you have pressure and pain under your toenail there could be several different reasons for it. Contact us to get your appointment scheduled.