If You Run, Check Your Shoes

Every year, nearly 5 million visits are made to doctors' offices for foot and ankle problems. Many of the patients are joggers.

The good news is that a thorough warm-up and proper footwear can prevent many of these injuries. CBS News Health Contributor Jordan Metzl, who is also a sports medicine specialist, reports for The Saturday Early Show.

In fact, Dr. Metzl says one of the best ways to prevent running injuries is to stretch, which many people don't do. "Many people just start running without properly warming up," he says. "A good warm-up will include stretches."

The most common injury that runners experience are shin splints. "Certainly people with arthritis are more at risk. But there are other conditions, such as pronated feet or falling arches, that can lead to injuries such as shin splints."

He also points out that, in the last 30 years, running shoe technology has changed dramatically. There are now shoes for all different types of runners. So, when buying a pair, take into consideration what preconditions you may have (such as pronated feet or arthritis).

You'll also want to consider what type of running you are doing. People who run long distances will buy different shoes than a sprinter.