PUBLISHED 10/03/2007
It's a fact. Most women runners could use a pedicure. "We're not talking about red toenail polish," says Noreen N. Oswell, D.P.M., a podiatrist in Los Angeles who staffs the first-aid booth at the finish line of the L.A. Marathon. "I'm talking about basic foot care. I see so many foot problems at the marathon and throughout the year (corns, calluses, blisters and black toenails) that could be prevented with regular pedicures."
Take nail trimming, for example. "When you try to reach down to work on your own feet, you have to be a bit of a contortionist," says Oswell. So, in addition to feeling awkward, a less than supple runner trying to groom her own feet can inflict injury. "Lots of people trim their nails too short, cut them at an angle, or rip and tear them because they're hard to reach," notes Oswell. "That sets you up for ingrown toenails and a lot of pain."
A pedicure also moisturizes your feet, as it typically involves a soak in a bubbly basin and a rubdown with oil or lotion. "Preserving the skin's moisture is critical," says Oswell. "It helps the skin keep its integrity, so you're much less likely to get blisters, cracks or other problems." Apply lotion to your feet every day between pedicures.
Pedicures are great for any athlete, and especially helpful for distance runners. Oswell recommends having one every month or so while you're training. Schedule your last pedicure for a week to 10 days before a race.
