Senior Care - How to Provide Elderly Independence

The Strange Case Of Weightlifting-Induced Foot Pain

by Stephen Silva

Life sometimes feels like carrying a 200 lb weight on one's shoulders -- and that is a good thing! At least carrying heavy weight is a good thing for those who love the gym. Squatting barbells sporting iron plates or lifting weight above the head builds muscles leading to a stronger, more durable, and aesthetically pleasing physique. The results are achieved by the progressive resistance caused the the force of gravity. Gravity, however, can be unkind to certain parts of the body. A lifetime of weightlifting might lead to heel pain. Mercifully, there are treatment options for weightlifter in need of dealing with training-related wear and tear on the feet.

Injuries to the Feet

There are far more potential injuries the feet can suffer due to weightlifting stress. Injuries to the Achilles tendon, the arches, calves, and more are possible. Consistently working out on sprained or injured feet is not the best strategy to follow. Likely, the condition is only going to worsen with more stress and pounding. Sometimes, the way the workout is performed could cause damage to the feet. Here are things to be very mindful of when worried about foot and ankle injuries:

  • Poor Technique

Checking out pictures of people performing lunges and squats is not enough. Neither is simply observing others in the gym. Improperly squatting or lunging can cause injury. Being out of balance, for example, could lead to a shift of too much weight to one side. The shift could lead to one foot carrying too much weight which might contribute to an injury. Always ask a qualified expert to explain the right technique for the exercises. Doing so could reduce injuries.

  • Uneven Surfaces

Working out at home or visiting a fitness facility at work may be the only options for some. An improvised workout environment does bring with it some problems. An uneven surface could also lead to balance issue contributing to excess foot stress. Investing in a portable adjustable platform to even footing would be beneficial.

  • Wrong Footwear

The standard footwear worn for cross-training might be okay for light exercising. For heavy lifting, generic shoes may be limited. Purchasing stability-supporting weightlifting shoes overcomes many limitations.

Avoiding an injury is better than treating one. If the injury can't be avoided then a doctor has to be contacted.

Have Chronic Pain Checked

Consistent nagging pain that does not go away may be reflective of a condition that won't go away without treatment. Surgery may even be required to fix damage in the foot. Hopefully, a much less complicated approach can cure the problem. Regardless, the condition cannot be effectively treated unless a doctor performs an examination.

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