SOLE Blog
June 15th, 2010
Do Your Feet Fall Asleep When You Run?
This is the first in a new series of question and answer posts on foot health. The below question was submitted by @chmpgnepolitics on Twitter.
Question: "This might be an odd question, but my foot often "falls asleep" during a long run....even if the laces are loosely tied. Help!?
Answer:
Could be a number of factors to address that causes your foot to fall asleep during a run (it's important to check with your doctor). Even though you are running with your laces tied loosely, the width of the shoe might be too tight while in motion. A good suggestion is to purchase shoes that contain a wider toe box.
Also, if you experience tightness in your hamstrings while running, this tightness may put pressure on your sciatic nerve, which can disrupt blood flow. Best way to combat this is to stretch the hamstrings before and after your run and on rest days. Examples of good stretches can be found on this webpage
http://www.halhigdon.com/15Ktraining/Stretch.htm
Also, properly supporting the foot is key. A good pair of properly fitted running shoes and correct arch support (SOLE) will help circulate blood flow to your feet while in motion.
Comments (2)
On June 16th, 2010, Sarah said:
You might try relacing your shoes as follows: Locate where the highest point of your instep is. Unlace your shoes to just below that point. Run the laces straight up each side one hole, then return to the standard criss-cross pattern. When tying your shoes, amke the laces snug both below and above the bypassed crossover. This works if the numbness is caused by compression of blood vessels as your feet swell.
On June 16th, 2010, Brandi said:
I've noticed that mid way through some of my longer runs, my foot goes numb too. Once I was aware of this, I started moving my toes and rotating my ankle slightly, in between strides. This seems to make the numbness go away. I think it's caused because my foot is too "flexed" or rigid and I don't allow it to relax at all. I would suggest you try and move your toes and ankles a little bit. If the problem persists, consider seeing a physician.