The balls of my feet are going numb during workouts...or long periods of walking

by Lori Parrott
(Tennessee)

I've recently began working out a lot. I signed up for a half marathon which is unheard of. I have a goal of losing over 50 lbs.

I take a ZUMBA class and a STEP-BOXING class during the week and also bike 2 miles a day and try to walk a few miles a day. My problem during classes and walking/jogging seems to be the ball of my feet going numb.

I have plantar fasciitis and wear orthotics for that, but have found with more foot work in the classes for example marching or shuffling from side to side, that my feet go numb and it's annoying me not to mention very uncomfortable. Why are they going numb and what can I do to fix it. Currently I'm wearing Mizuno brand shoes.

Thanks,
Lori Parrott
Tennessee

The Fitness Walking Guide Recommends...



Here are a couple things to help you narrow down what my be causing your numbness:

First, how old are your shoes? If you've had them longer than a year, you should replace them as the cushioning has worn down.

Second, the pair you have may not have enough cushioning and they may not be the right shoe for the exercise you are doing. For example, cross trainers are recommended for the back and forth type of exercise you are doing in your classes. And walking shoes aren't the best for running as they are a little stiff (running shoes are perfectly fine for walking, though) What sport are your current shoes designed for?

Third, you might be tying the laces too tight. Loosening the laces has helped a lot of people relieve the numbness.

What I would recommend is to go to an athletic shoe store where they can analyze your gate and foot type and make decision about what type of shoe would be best for you based on the data.

If that doesn't work, you may need to see a podiatrist to rule out any nerve issues.

I hope these ideas help you solve this issue. Best of luck to you on your half marathon!