Ready, set, run! If you plan to keep things moving this holiday season, an indoor or outside run may be on your list. We are cheering you on during your next run. We also want to help you avoid an injury. Here are three ways to reduce the risk of injuring your feet or ankles. Follow these recommendations from the doctors at the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group.

Check-in before you take off running

Before you pull out your running shoes, may we suggest a check-up? A quick visit to the podiatrist can give you the most updated outlook of your foot and ankle health. A podiatrist can alert you to any concerns that can impact your next run. From a painful ingrown toenail to an undiagnosed ankle sprain, we’re here to treat conditions to get you back on the track – or treadmill.

Choose running shoes only

Before you lace up your shoes, make sure you have chosen the right pair. Selecting the wrong pair of shoes can set you up for an injury. As with playing sports, check with the sales representative for your sports-specific shoes.

Carve out time to stretch

Stretching before and after a run is one of the best ways to protect your body. We encourage 15 minutes of stretching. Allow your body the time it needs to warm up and cool down. We share a few more benefits of stretching here.

At the New Jersey Podiatric Physicians & Surgeons Group, there are almost 30 foot and ankle surgeons, podiatrists, and doctors. With more than 30 locations, from Newark, NJ, to Cape May, NJ, we value convenience and excellent service for our patients. We offer compassionate, cutting-edge care across our network, and we specialize in treating the following conditions: ankle and sports injuries, heel pain and plantar fasciitis, bunions, hammertoes, corns and calluses, ingrown toenails, diabetic foot care complications, children’s foot problems, skin conditions of the feet, and fungal nails. Our group is among the best foot and ankle providers in the country. To schedule an appointment, first find a podiatrist in your area.