Running shoes - foot problem

[anything I don't mind]

I am looking to start running in streets in the evenings. I used to do long distance running when i was younger but not done so for 15 years. About 10 years ago I damaged my right foot and ever since i have been dragging my right foot and using my left foot when walking. My calf is visibly smaller on the right leg and only recently (last 2 years) have i been able to start walking on the right foot again. i consciously try to correct my walk and walk on my right foot as much as possible, but it is still not perfect. It has gotten to the point now where my left foot is starting to hurt a lot when walking because i put all the pressure on that foot. The toes on my right foot are all twisted up and i get cramps if i put my foot in a specific position, the cramps don't feel bad though. I am have apprehensive about starting to run because of this. I used to run on my toes opposed to flat foot running. Should i go to doctor about it before i even consider running do you think or will running help to sort it out?

When selecting shoes should i pick the more flat running shoes, they call them natural running shoes or go with something with more padding?

 

[Fuggan]

Not sure I fully understand how bad the 'dragging' is but I think the best thing you can do is go down to either your local Up & Running, SweatShop or the likes and have them do a GAIT analysis on you. This is usually free and basically assess how your feet move when running. They'll usually recommend some shoes to you after the process too.

 

[anything I don't mind]

Not sure I fully understand how bad the 'dragging' is but I think the best thing you can do is go down to either your local Up & Running, SweatShop or the likes and have them do a GAIT analysis on you. This is usually free and basically assess how your feet move when running. They'll usually recommend some shoes to you after the process too.

There is a runners need near my work, will they do that GAIT test?

I was going to go down there after work as colleague at work suggested that.

Basically i don't put pressure on my right foot and its a bit twisted and as a result all my toes on the right foot are very weak. When i stand my on toes on my right foot my calf cramps up.

 

[semi-pro waster]

There is a runners need near my work, will they do that GAIT test?

According to the Runners Need website all their stores apart from the Bridgend outlet do gait analysis. I've used both Runners Need recently and Sweatshop previously for running trainer purchases, the Sweatshop process was a bit longer and seemed a bit more involved but for the most recent trainer purchase I already had a reasonable idea of what my gait was like so it didn't need to be as detailed an analysis. Do bear in mind that they're not miracle workers though, if it's a long term problem then you might be better off consulting your GP or a specialist for such problems.

And if this is more of a medical question then we can't answer it for you here, you will need to see a qualified expert and take advice.