Finding the right running shoe is the first step to avoiding injury

(Aging Untold) — Whether it’s a lunch-break jog or training for a marathon, an injury can stop a runner’s progress.

Aging Untold expert Amy O’Rourke said proper footwear is the foundation for avoiding injury.

“Your shoes are supporting your feet, which is supporting your body. So, you want to make sure that you’re getting the right shoes so that you’re walking properly. You’re not creating an injury, which can happen if you’re not wearing the right shoes. You do not want to underestimate that,” O’Rourke said.

Feet change over time

O’Rourke said feet change over time, meaning a shoe size worn five years ago might not be the right size today.

“Well, if you’re wearing the wrong shoe, you can start walking differently. You could just create an injury from compensating on the wrong side. You could be off balance. You could create dizziness. You could create all kinds of neurological problems stemming from your feet,” O’Rourke said.

Shoes lose their support after 300 to 400 miles.

Experts suggest visiting a specialty store for a gait analysis to see how a foot strikes the ground.

“So if you have the wrong fitting shoe, and by wrong fitting, I mean it’s too tight or it’s too wide or your toes are pushing up against the front of the shoe, if there’s any discomfort, walk around the store for a long time to make sure that it’s really comfortable,” O’Rourke said.

Fit is individual

Your friend’s favorite shoe brand might not work for a different foot type.

“The thing that you want to look for is, do you have any pain whatsoever in any part of your body, your foot, your knee, your hip, anywhere in your body that you’re feeling pain or discomfort? Get a new pair,” O’Rourke said.