Sore Feet from Squash Feats?

All squash players occasionally suffer with sore feet. If you will insist on picking up every ball, what can you expect? However there are a few tips that may prevent problems.

If in doubt seek medical attention from your GP, a chiropodist or podiatrist.

Warm up before you begin playing flat out.

Make sure the squash shoes fit comfortably. If they are too tight, graze your toes, or just don't support your arch or ankles, then get some new shoes. Consult your local specialist squash shoe shop, such as www.Just-Rackets.co.uk Letchworth Tennis & Squash Club, Muddy lane, Letchworth, Herts, SG6 3TB telephone 01462-672446 or email sales@justrackets.com for advice.

If you develop blisters easily, as I do, you should try wearing 2 pairs of socks. The thin pair next to your skin, with the thicker pair on top to reduce friction. You may need larger shoes to accommodate this. Cut your toenails regularly. Not too short or too long. (To promote rapid healing, I pierce blisters with a sterilised needle, to relieve the pressure but this is NOT recommended by health experts. Clean dressings are essential to avoid infection)

Wear comfortable shoes of the right size, that give good support to your ankle, to prevent twisting, and to your arch if you have a tendency to flat feet. Your toes should not be squeezed into the pointed toe area but should fit snugly.

Experiment with different brands and models until you find the right ones for you. Then buy 2 pairs. Break in the 2nd pair right away and switch between them, so that they have a chance to dry out properly.

Manufacturers have a habit of changing the shape of squash shoes each year. If you have found that perfect squash shoe buy a couple of extra pairs. Replace your shoes regularly. Worn-out and battered shoes are cheap but your feet will pay the price. I replace my shoes every 6 months but the frequency depends on how often and how hard you play.

Break-in a new pair of shoes slowly by wearing them indoors at home, until they stretch to your own unique foot shape. It takes me 2 weeks to do this.

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