I've been struggling with my toes/ball of foot going numb since April of this year. I tried changing shoes and socks, taking advil before runs, compression, etc. I heard that lower drop shoes can be better for this. Any advice? Anyone else go through this and have suggestions or what worked for them? I mainly run in Brooks Adrenalines, just got a pair of topo phantoms to try.
Thanks!
Kate
Hi Kate,
Welcome to the TR Community. I wish our conversation was on a less painful topic.
It sounds like you've received some solid advice/did some research already. Lower drop shoes may help as they can assist in reducing pressure on your forefoot. The Topo Phantom is a reliable option as it has a lower drop and wider toe box.
Was there anything in particular that changed in April (more running, new shoes, etc)?
One of the most fundamental things I start within working on fit issues is checking the shoe size against what someone wears typically. Your running shoes should be about half a size larger than your largest foot. So, for example, my right foot measures 10.5, but I wear 11 running shoes. You sound like you've done your research. So, this may be repetitive information for you (if so, I apologize). Another factor involving fit is the shape and/or width of your foot. I, as an example, have a slightly wider right foot. So, I am very conscious of the width and/or shape of my shoes. I've dealt with this issue on my right foot before. These are all the things I've used to help.
Finally, another consideration is an aftermarket
insole. They help distribute weight and remove some pressure from your forefoot. Currently, I'm using Wiiv. However, I've also used Currex & Superfeet. I'd say anything in the
Supportive insole category should assist.
Let us know how your Topo Phantoms feel. We hope you feel better soon.
Thank you,
Justin
RW Staff
