Common post-marathon foot and lower-limb problems, what usually settles, and when it is sensible to get assessed.
What is common after a marathon
Blisters, bruised nails, general muscle soreness and temporary stiffness are common after 26.2 miles. Achilles pain, shin pain, focal forefoot pain or swelling can also appear when training and race-day load exceed tissue capacity.
Give recovery some structure
Relative rest, comfortable footwear, sleep, nutrition and gentle movement are useful in the first few days. Avoid immediately testing a painful area with another hard run simply because cardiovascular fitness feels good.
When to seek assessment
Book an assessment if pain is sharp, very localised, worsening, associated with significant swelling, altering your walking pattern or not improving as expected. A podiatry assessment can help distinguish routine post-race soreness from an injury that needs a more specific plan.