Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about virtual podiatry consultations, running injuries, foot health and The Runner’s Sole Podcast. If you can’t find what you’re looking for, get in touch and Sharon will be happy to help.
Consultations & how it works
What is a virtual podiatry consultation?
A virtual podiatry consultation is a one-to-one video appointment with a qualified podiatrist, where you can discuss foot pain, running injuries, footwear concerns or general foot health from your own home. At The Runner's Sole, Sharon Miller offers virtual consultations drawing on over 20 years of clinical podiatry experience — ideal if you can't access a local clinic, prefer the convenience of home appointments, or want expert advice without waiting weeks for an in-person referral.
Can a podiatrist really help me online without seeing my feet in person?
Yes — for most non-surgical concerns, a virtual consultation is highly effective. A lot of foot health work is about understanding your symptoms, history, footwear, training load and lifestyle. With clear video, photos of your feet and shoes, and a structured discussion, a podiatrist can identify likely causes, recommend treatment plans, suggest exercises, and advise when an in-person visit or referral is needed.
Running injuries & plantar fasciitis
What is plantar fasciitis and why does it hurt most in the morning?
Plantar fasciitis is irritation or degeneration of the plantar fascia — the thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot from heel to toes. Overnight, the tissue tightens, so those first steps in the morning stretch it sharply, which is why so many people describe a stabbing pain in the heel as soon as they get out of bed. The pain often eases as you walk and the tissue warms up.
Can I keep running with plantar fasciitis?
Sometimes, but not always — and not in the same way you were before. Continuing to run as if nothing's wrong is the most common reason plantar fasciitis becomes chronic. A modified plan that reduces volume, swaps in low-impact cross-training, and adds the right strengthening work usually allows you to keep some running while the tissue recovers.
What are the biggest mistakes new runners make?
The classics are increasing mileage too quickly, running every session at the same moderate effort, ignoring rest days, wearing the wrong shoes, skipping any kind of strength work, and pushing through pain that should be a warning sign. Beginners who start slowly and build gradually have far fewer injuries than those who chase quick progress.
Running injuries & plantar fasciitis
How do I choose the right running shoes for my feet?
The right shoe is the one that fits your foot shape, suits how you actually run, feels comfortable from the start, and matches the surfaces you train on. Brand, price and looks matter far less than fit and feel. If a shoe needs "breaking in" or causes blisters from day one, it isn't right for you.
How often should I replace my running shoes?
Most running shoes last somewhere between 300 and 500 miles, though this varies with body weight, running style and shoe construction. Visible wear under the heel or forefoot, the midsole feeling flat or compressed, and new niggles appearing are all signs it's time to replace them.
Diabetes & running
Is it safe to run if I have diabetes?
For most people with well-managed diabetes, running is not only safe but genuinely beneficial. The key is doing it with a few extra precautions: choosing shoes and socks that protect the skin, checking your feet daily, monitoring blood sugar around training, and getting any new foot issue assessed early rather than running through it.
What are the warning signs a diabetic runner should never ignore?
Any persistent redness, swelling, warmth, blisters that aren't healing, numbness or tingling, changes in skin colour, or pain that seems out of proportion to your activity all need quick attention. With diabetes, what looks like a minor issue can progress quickly, so early review is far safer than waiting to see what happens.
The podcast
What is The Runner's Sole podcast about?
The Runner's Sole is a podcast hosted by Sharon Miller, a podiatrist with over 20 years of clinical experience, covering foot health, running injuries, recovery, footwear and practical advice for runners of every level. Episodes are short, plain-language, and focus on the things people actually deal with — from plantar fasciitis to choosing shoes to running safely with diabetes. You can listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, or directly on Buzzsprout.