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Rebecca Cerrato, M.D., The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy

Dr. Rebecca Cerrato Of The Institute For Foot And Ankle Reconstruction At Mercy Discusses Foot Pain Issues That May Occur When Starting A New Exercise Program

Since many people are starting vigorous post-holiday walking, running and exercising routines, doctors are warning people to take care of their feet.

Paula Ward said she restarted her fast-paced, five-mile walking routine with a girlfriend not too long ago, and it wasn't too long before she started having foot pain.

"In both heels — very serious. When I got up in the morning, I could hardly get out of bed. It was excruciating," she said.

But she did not back off her program.

"I just said it will get better. But no, it did not," Ward said.

That lack of attention landed her in the office of Dr. Rebecca Cerrato of The Institute for Foot and Ankle Reconstruction at Mercy Medical Center who has seen the problem many times before.

"If they don't stretch and get into exercise and go too fast, it's hard on not just the cardiovascular system, but your feet haven't been used to that sort of pounding," Dr. Cerrato said.

Ward had the most common source of foot pain — plantar fasciitis — that is an inflammation of the thick band of tissue under the arch of the foot.

"They complain of pain at the heel, during the first step in the morning or after sitting for a while. It is excruciatingly painful," Dr. Cerrato said.

There can be other problems, including Achilles tendonitis pain on the back of the heel, stress fractures in which pain usually gets worse over time and worse as the day goes on, or a pinched nerve in which pain happens in the ball of the foot and numbness and tingling happen in the toes.

Dr. Cerrato recommended exercisers start their programs gradually, stretch their feet and make sure to get the right shoe.

If you are having foot pain, back off the exercise, and consult your physician. Treatments might include anti-inflammatories, icing the injury and elevating the foot.

To learn more, watch WBAL-TV11's Woman's Doctor segment with Dr. Cerrato at http://www.wbaltv.com/womansdoctor/18567423/detail.html