Running for Your Life: In Honor of Tootsies

When you’re running for your life, it stands to reason that some parts of the body will begin to feel it.

For many that means knees, hips, calves. For me, it’s feet and to be more precise, toes.

So what to do? Pay attention. Don’t be afraid to act when you feel pain. Too many people will run as recreation and then with persistent pain or discomfort stop cold.

For years now, I’ve run with prescription orthotics in my shoes. (Stay with me, this is going to be worth it.) They help to level the foot strike and have alleviated the neuritis that just a couple of years ago had me in agony, especially after runs in double-digit miles. Since then I’ve taken to buying Dr. Scholl’s insoles for everyday shoes.

After almost forty years of regular running, I feel like I should treat my feet (toes!) with a little tenderness. These orthotics and Dr. Scholl’s make a world of difference to me.

Oh, and buy oversize. Give those toes room to move. I’m too old for “Born to Run,” the shoeless Joes and Janes of the trail. Especially for the middle-aged and post-. Roomy is groovy.

Another thought: Long runs. Be kind to your tootsies. Layer them in petroleum jelly. They’ll love that. After all, your toes don’t have any say in this multi-mile running thing.

Matter of fact, tootsies pretty much have no say, period. That’s it. Take some time. Check ’em out. Pedicare isn’t just about what color you choose for your nails.

Ask Caitlyn Jenner, if you don’t believe me. Dr. Scholl’s or Vaseline should sign her to endorse their products. Bruce, he knew from toe punishment as a decathlete, and Caitlyn will know it – and how! – trying to get into – and stay into – those six-inch Jimmy Choos.

Next: Running for Your Life: If the Greats Were With Us Thursday