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Dr. Tom’s Top Pain Relief Picks — Dr. Hoy’s (2026)
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. I personally use Dr. Hoy’s in my practice for patients who need topical relief.
| Product | Best For | Dr. Tom’s Take | Get It |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief Gel 3.5oz menthol + arnica |
Plantar fasciitis · Achilles tendonitis · Sore muscles · Joint pain | My go-to topical. Cooling-then-warming sensation. No greasy residue. Non-NSAID alternative. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Arnica Boost 8oz with extra arnica |
Bruising · Post-injury · Sprains · Stress fractures (pain only) | Higher arnica concentration speeds recovery from acute injury. Use 4x daily for first 7 days. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Cooling Pain Relief 8oz extra menthol |
Acute inflammation · Hot/swollen feet · Post-run cooldown | Stronger cooling effect for acute swelling. Pair with ice for first 48 hours after injury. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Roll-On Pain Relief Roller applicator |
Mess-free application · Travel · Office use · No-touch hygiene | My patients love this for travel. Glides on without hand contact — cleanest application available. | Buy Now |
| Dr. Hoy’s Family Size 14oz pump bottle |
Frequent users · Multiple family members · Best value per ounce | If anyone in your home uses pain cream regularly, this is the most economical size. Same formula. | Buy Now |
Why I recommend Dr. Hoy’s over Biofreeze and Bengay: Cleaner ingredient list (no parabens, no synthetic dyes), longer-lasting effect, and the cooling-then-warming dual sensation actually addresses both inflammation and circulation. After 10 years of recommending different topicals, this is the one I keep coming back to.
Quick Compare: Dr. Tom’s Top Running Shoes
| Shoe | Best For | Watch Out For | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hoka Bondi 9 | Plantar fasciitis, max cushion | Heavy, tall stack | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Brooks Ghost 17 | Neutral runners, first running shoe | Not for 200+lb runners | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 | Flat feet, overpronation | Snug toe box | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Altra Torin 8 | Wide feet, bunions, Morton’s toe | Zero-drop transition | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Hoka Clifton 10 | Daily training, lighter Hoka | Less cushion than Bondi | Buy | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| NB 990v6 | Senior fall prevention, 6E width |
Dr. Tom’s Top Pain Relief Picks — Dr. Hoy’s (2026)Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. I personally use Dr. Hoy’s in my practice for patients who need topical relief.
Why I recommend Dr. Hoy’s over Biofreeze and Bengay: Cleaner ingredient list (no parabens, no synthetic dyes), longer-lasting effect, and the cooling-then-warming dual sensation actually addresses both inflammation and circulation. After 10 years of recommending different topicals, this is the one I keep coming back to. | Buy |
For full detailed reviews with pros/cons/Dr. Tom’s tips, see our complete shoe guide.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Podiatric Surgeon · Last reviewed: April 2026 · Editorial Policy
Quick Answer
Foot Pain from Running: Common Injuries, Causes, and How to relates to foot pain — typically caused by overuse, footwear, or biomechanics. Most patients improve in 6-12 weeks with conservative care. Same-week appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp: (810) 206-1402.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-certified foot & ankle surgeon, 3,000+ surgeries performed. Updated April 2026 with current clinical evidence. This article reflects real practice experience from Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan.
Quick Answer
Most foot and ankle problems respond to conservative care — proper footwear, supportive inserts, activity modification, and targeted stretching — within 4-8 weeks. Persistent pain beyond that window, or any symptom that prevents walking, warrants a podiatric evaluation to rule out fracture, tendon tear, or systemic cause.
Watch: Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM
Medically reviewed by Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM — Board-Certified Podiatrist, Fellow of the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. Updated April 2026.
Why Running Causes Foot Pain
Running subjects the feet to repetitive impact forces of 2–3 times body weight with each stride—and at a cadence of 150–180 steps per minute, even a 30-minute run involves thousands of loading cycles. The foot is the primary structure absorbing these forces and converting them into forward propulsion. When tissue capacity is exceeded by training load—whether from too much distance, too rapid a progression, inadequate footwear, or underlying biomechanical issues—overuse injuries result. Running foot injuries account for a significant proportion of all running injuries, and many are preventable or rapidly treatable when identified early.
Most Common Running Foot Injuries
Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is the most common foot problem in runners, producing pain at the heel and arch that is worst with the first steps in the morning and after rest periods. It is caused by repetitive tensile loading of the plantar fascia—the thick connective tissue band from the heel bone to the toes—that exceeds the tissue’s recovery capacity. Risk factors include rapid mileage increases, tight Achilles tendons, worn-out running shoes, significant overpronation, and high-arched rigid feet. Treatment includes Achilles and plantar fascia stretching, supportive shoes with good heel cushioning, custom orthotics, and activity modification while maintaining fitness with non-impact exercise. Most cases resolve within 3–6 months with consistent treatment.
Metatarsal Stress Fractures
Metatarsal stress fractures—tiny cracks in the long metatarsal bones from repetitive impact loading—are a classic running overuse injury. The second and third metatarsals are most commonly affected. Presentation is forefoot pain that begins during a run and progressively worsens, eventually limiting running distance and becoming present with walking. X-rays are often negative in the first 2–3 weeks (before periosteal reaction develops); MRI or bone scan is more sensitive for early diagnosis. Treatment requires protected weight-bearing in a walking boot for 4–6 weeks, followed by gradual return to running. Fifth metatarsal base fractures (Jones fractures) carry a higher nonunion risk and may require surgical fixation in high-level athletes.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendinopathy—degeneration and pain in the Achilles tendon—causes posterior ankle and heel pain with running that worsens as mileage increases. Two patterns exist: midportion tendinopathy (2–6 cm above the heel bone, more common in runners) and insertional tendinopathy (at the Achilles insertion on the calcaneus, associated with prominent heel bone or Haglund’s deformity). Treatment includes eccentric heel drop exercises (the most evidence-supported intervention), load modification, and addressing footwear and biomechanical contributors. Most runners can continue training at reduced volume during treatment—complete rest is not typically necessary or beneficial.
Sesamoiditis and Sesamoid Stress Fractures
Pain under the big toe joint from sesamoid overload is common in forefoot strikers and ballet-style runners. The medial sesamoid is more frequently affected. Treatment involves offloading with a dancer’s pad or J-shaped orthotic modification, shoe modification to reduce forefoot bending, and activity modification. Complete stress fractures require a period of non-weight-bearing or boot immobilization.
Black Toenails and Toenail Problems
Subungual hematoma (blood under the nail, causing the nail to turn black) results from repeated trauma when the toe contacts the front of the shoe during downhill running or when shoes are too small. The nail may be painful initially and eventually falls off, growing back over 6–9 months. Prevention: ensure 0.5–1 cm of space between the longest toe and the shoe tip, and lace shoes snugly to prevent forward foot slide. For painful pressure from the hematoma, a podiatrist can drain the blood through a small hole in the nail.
Preventing Running Foot Injuries
Most running foot injuries are preventable. Key prevention strategies include: the 10% rule (increase weekly mileage by no more than 10% per week to allow tissue adaptation), replacing running shoes every 400–500 miles before cushioning degrades, performing a biomechanical evaluation and getting properly fitted shoes at a running specialty store, incorporating rest days and cross-training to reduce cumulative loading, and addressing foot flexibility issues (particularly Achilles tightness) with consistent stretching. Custom orthotics are appropriate when biomechanical issues (significant overpronation, leg length discrepancy, structural foot deformities) are contributing to recurrent injury.
In-Office Treatment at Balance Foot & Ankle
If home care isn’t resolving your your foot or ankle concern, a visit with a board-certified podiatrist is the fastest path to accurate diagnosis and a personalized plan. At Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists, Dr. Tom Biernacki, Dr. Carl Jay, and Dr. Daria Gutkin offer same-day and next-day appointments at both our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices. We perform on-site diagnostic ultrasound, digital X-ray, conservative care, advanced regenerative treatments, and minimally invasive surgery when indicated.
Call (810) 206-1402 or request an appointment online. Most insurance plans accepted, including Medicare, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Aetna, Cigna, and United Healthcare.
More Podiatrist-Recommended Sports Essentials
Hoka Clifton 10
Max-cushion everyday shoe — podiatrist favorite for walking and running.
OOFOS Recovery Slide
Impact-absorbing recovery sandal — wear after long days on your feet.
As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. Product recommendations are based on clinical experience; prices and availability shown above update live from Amazon.
When to See a Podiatrist
Athletic injuries heal faster with sport-specific rehab protocols — not generic rest and ice. Balance Foot & Ankle works with runners, soccer players, dancers, and weekend warriors to rebuild strength and return to sport on an accelerated timeline. Don’t let a foot injury keep you sidelined longer than necessary.
Call Balance Foot & Ankle: (810) 206-1402 · Book online · Offices in Howell & Bloomfield Hills
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I stop running if my foot hurts?
It depends on the nature and severity of the pain. Minor muscle soreness that improves during a run and resolves promptly afterward is normal training adaptation. Pain that worsens during a run, is sharp rather than dull, doesn’t improve after the first mile of warming up, or persists more than 24 hours after a run is a signal to reduce or stop running and evaluate the cause. Running through acute sharp pain risks converting a stress reaction into a complete stress fracture, or an early tendinopathy into a significant tendon tear. A brief period of reduced or zero running while a problem is evaluated and treated almost always results in a faster overall return to full training than ignoring pain until injury becomes severe.
What running shoes are best for foot pain?
The best running shoe depends on your foot type and specific injury. Runners with overpronation and flat feet generally benefit from stability or motion control shoes that limit excessive arch collapse. Runners with high-arched rigid feet typically do better in neutral cushioned shoes that provide more impact absorption. For plantar fasciitis, shoes with good heel cushioning and a moderate heel-to-toe drop (8–12mm) reduce plantar fascia stress. For Achilles tendinopathy, a slightly higher heel drop reduces Achilles loading. For forefoot pain and metatarsal issues, a wider toe box and rocker sole help. A professional gait analysis at a running specialty store, combined with a podiatric biomechanical evaluation, provides the most accurate shoe recommendation for your specific situation.
Can I run with plantar fasciitis?
Many runners with plantar fasciitis can continue running at a modified volume while treating the condition—complete rest is generally not required and may slow recovery by reducing tissue loading needed for tendon adaptation. Guidelines for running with plantar fasciitis: keep pain during running below a 3/10 severity, warm up thoroughly before running, avoid running when morning pain is severe (above 5/10), run on softer surfaces when possible, and prioritize the stretching and orthotic components of treatment. If pain worsens significantly after a run or reaches 5+/10 during running, reduce mileage further. A podiatrist can help calibrate your training load during recovery and prescribe the orthotics and footwear changes that allow continued running.
Medical References & Sources
- PubMed Research — Running Injury Epidemiology
- PubMed Research — Metatarsal Stress Fracture in Runners
- American Podiatric Medical Association — Running
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatric surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle in Howell and Bloomfield Hills, Michigan. He treats running foot injuries from acute stress fractures to chronic tendinopathy with biomechanical evaluation, custom orthotics, and sport-specific rehabilitation guidance.
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Insoles
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Our board-certified podiatrists treat this condition at two convenient locations. Same-day appointments often available.
PowerStep is the brand I prescribe most — medical-grade OTC support without the custom orthotic price tag.
- PowerStep Pulse Insoles — Performance insoles for runners — flexible arch support with shock absorption for high-mileage athletes.
- PowerStep Pinnacle Insoles — The #1 podiatrist-recommended OTC insole — firm arch support with dual-layer cushioning for all-day wear.
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👟 Dr. Tom Also Recommends
Podiatrist Recommended Shoes 2026: Dr. Tom’s Top Picks for Every Condition
The right footwear can make or break your recovery. Dr. Tom’s complete guide to the best shoes for plantar fasciitis, flat feet, neuropathy, bunions & more — with clinical picks for every foot type.
See Dr. Tom’s Top Shoe Picks →Insurance Accepted
BCBS · Medicare · Aetna · Cigna · United Healthcare · HAP · Priority Health · Humana · View All →
Howell Office
3980 E Grand River Ave, Suite 140
Howell, MI 48843
Get Directions →
Bloomfield Hills Office
43700 Woodward Ave, Suite 207
Bloomfield Hills, MI 48302
Get Directions →
Your Board-Certified Podiatrists
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-week appointments available at both locations.
Book Your AppointmentMost Common Mistake We See
The most common mistake we see is: Waiting too long before seeking care. Fix: any foot pain lasting more than 4 weeks, or any sudden severe symptom, deserves a professional evaluation rather than more rest.
Warning Signs That Need Same-Day Care
Seek immediate evaluation at Balance Foot & Ankle if you experience any of the following:
- Unable to bear weight
- Severe swelling with skin colour change
- Fever with foot pain (possible infection)
- Diabetes plus any new foot symptom
Call (810) 206-1402 — same-day and next-day appointments at our Howell and Bloomfield Hills offices.
Pros & Cons of Conservative Care for foot care
Advantages
- ✓ Conservative care first
- ✓ Same-week appointments
- ✓ Multiple insurance accepted
Considerations
- ✗ Self-treatment can mask issues
- ✗ See a podiatrist if pain >2 weeks
Dr. Tom’s Recommended Products for foot care
Affiliate disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, Balance Foot & Ankle earns from qualifying purchases. We only recommend products we use with patients.
Footnanny Heel Cream Dr. Tom’s Pick
Best for: Daily moisturizer for cracked heels
Ready to Get Back on Your Feet?
Same-day appointments in Howell + Bloomfield Twp. Most insurance accepted. Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM & team.
Book Today — Same-Day Appointments Available
Call Now: (810) 206-1402
About Your Care Team at Balance Foot & Ankle
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM · Board-Certified Foot & Ankle Surgeon. Specializes in conservative-first care, minimally invasive bunion surgery, and complex reconstruction.
Dr. Carl Jay, DPM · Accepting new patients. Specializes in sports medicine, athletic injuries, and routine podiatric care.
Dr. Daria Gutkin, DPM, AACFAS · Accepting new patients. Specializes in surgical reconstruction and pediatric podiatry.
Locations: 4330 E Grand River Ave, Howell, MI 48843 · 43494 Woodward Ave Suite 208, Bloomfield Twp, MI 48302
Hours: Mon–Fri 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM · (810) 206-1402
Dr. Tom’s Top 3 — The Premium Foot Pain Stack (2026)
If you only buy three things for foot pain, get these. PowerStep + CURREX orthotics correct the underlying foot mechanics, and Dr. Hoy’s pain gel delivers fast topical relief. This is the exact stack Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM gives his Michigan podiatry patients on visit one — over 10,000 patients have used this exact combination.
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a board-certified podiatrist + Amazon Associate. Picks shown are products he prescribes to patients at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists. We earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you. All products independently tested + reviewed for 30+ days minimum. Last verified: April 28, 2026.
PowerStep Pinnacle MaxxDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Dr. Tom’s most-prescribed OTC orthotic. Lateral wedge corrects overpronation that causes 90% of foot pain. Deep heel cradle stabilizes the ankle. Built by podiatrists, used by patients worldwide.
- Lateral wedge corrects pronation
- Deep heel cradle stabilizes ankle
- Dual-density EVA — comfort + support
- Trim-to-fit any shoe
- Used by 10,000+ podiatrists
- Trim-to-size required
- 5-7 day break-in for some
CURREX RunProDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
3 arch heights for custom fit (Low/Med/High). Carbon-reinforced heel + dynamic forefoot — the closest OTC orthotic to a $500 custom orthotic. Engineered in Germany.
- 3 arch heights for custom fit
- Carbon-reinforced heel cup
- Dynamic forefoot zone
- Premium German engineering
- Sport-specific support
- Pricier than PowerStep
- 7-10 day break-in
Dr. Hoy’s Natural Pain Relief GelDr. Tom’s #1 Brand
Menthol-based natural pain relief — Dr. Tom’s #1 brand for fast relief without greasy residue. Safe for diabetics + daily use. Cleaner formula than Voltaren or Biofreeze.
- Menthol-based natural formula
- No greasy residue
- Safe for diabetics
- Fast cooling relief — 5-10 minutes
- Cleaner ingredient list than Biofreeze
- Pricier than Biofreeze
- Strong menthol scent at first
Dr. Tom Biernacki, DPM is a double board-certified podiatrist and foot & ankle surgeon at Balance Foot & Ankle Specialists in Southeast Michigan. With over a decade of clinical experience, he specializes in heel pain, bunions, diabetic foot care, sports injuries, and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Biernacki is a member of the APMA and ACFAS, and his patient education content on MichiganFootDoctors.com and YouTube has reached over one million views.
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