Whether you're pounding the pavement in a marathon or sprinting through your weekly 5K, your feet are doing a lot of heavy lifting. For athletes and runners, foot health isn’t just important—it’s essential.

Injuries like blisters, heel pain, or tendon issues can derail training and lead to long recovery times. But with the right care and attention, you can keep your feet strong, supported, and ready for the next race.

At Peak Podiatry, our team understands the demands placed on an active body, and as a leading Podiatrist in Galway, we’re here to help you stay one step ahead. Here are our top foot care tips every runner and athlete should know.

1. Invest in Proper Footwear

This might sound obvious, but many foot issues start with the wrong shoes. Not all trainers are created equal, and what works for one person may not suit another.

• Get your gait analysed before buying shoes. This ensures your footwear supports your running style.

• Choose a pair with the right arch support and adequate cushioning.

• Replace running shoes every 300–500 miles, or sooner if you notice uneven wear.

At Peak Podiatry, we can assess your foot structure and make tailored recommendations for shoe types that work best for your activity level and training goals.

2. Don’t Ignore Minor Discomfort

A small ache today can become a serious injury tomorrow. Listen to your body.

• If you feel a burning, sharp, or persistent pain, take a break and get it checked.

• Conditions like plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendonitis, or stress fractures often start with mild symptoms.

Seeing a Podiatrist in Galway early can save you weeks—or even months—of downtime later on.

3. Stretch and Strengthen Your Feet

Just like your hamstrings or calves, your feet and ankles need stretching and strengthening to stay injury-free.

Incorporate these into your routine:

• Toe curls with a towel to build foot strength.

• Calf stretches to reduce tension on the heel and Achilles tendon.

• Rolling your foot on a frozen water bottle to ease plantar fascia tightness.

These small daily exercises can have a big impact on how your feet handle repetitive strain.

4. Keep Your Feet Dry and Clean

Sweaty feet trapped in tight shoes are a breeding ground for fungal infections and blisters.

• Wear moisture-wicking socks, not cotton.

• Air out your shoes between workouts.

• Wash your feet thoroughly after exercise, and dry carefully—especially between the toes.

If you notice flaky skin, itchiness, or persistent moisture, it may be time to treat athlete’s foot before it spreads or worsens.

5. Trim Toenails Properly

Ingrown toenails are more common in runners than you might think—especially if you’re logging long miles or wearing narrow shoes.

• Trim nails straight across to avoid edges growing into the skin.

• Don’t cut them too short.

• If you feel redness, swelling, or discomfort, get professional advice before trying to fix it yourself.

A trusted Podiatrist in Galway can safely treat ingrown toenails and prevent infections from developing.

6. Manage Calluses and Blisters

Calluses are your body’s natural way of protecting the skin, but excessive build-up can lead to cracks and pain.

• Gently file thick calluses after bathing, and keep the area moisturised.

• For blisters, clean the area and use a protective bandage—don’t pop them.

If calluses or blisters are interfering with your stride, it's worth getting them assessed.

7. Know When to Rest

Rest is just as important as training. If your feet feel fatigued, take time off to recover. Overtraining is a common cause of foot and ankle injuries in active people.

If pain persists despite rest, that’s your sign to see a podiatrist. Peak Podiatry is here to support Galway’s active community with expert assessments, diagnosis, and recovery plans.

Final Thoughts

Taking care of your feet is part of taking care of your performance. Whether you're training for a big event or just enjoy a few weekly runs, your feet deserve attention.

If you're dealing with recurring issues, considering custom orthotics, or just want peace of mind, book an appointment with a Podiatrist in Galway at Peak Podiatry. We’re here to help you stay active, comfortable, and injury-free.