Avoiding Common Running Injuries

Running is an excellent form of exercise. Not only does it help burn calories and strengthen your body, but it can also help reduce stress. There are, however, certain safety precautions you should take, as there are many injuries that one might experience when running. You might be wondering, “What are some common running injuries?”

Read on to learn about how to avoid running injuries:

• Lower back pain: Over time, runners may experience pain in their lower back. This pain can range in severity and is usually caused by poor running form. No matter what the cause, it’s important to not push yourself. If you’re noticing back pain, take a break, and consider contacting a physical therapist or other medical professional to diagnose your issue.
• Runner’s knee: Athletes can experience runner’s knee in just one or both of their knees. Also known as patellofemoral syndrome, runner’s knee causes one to experience pain in the knees that can range from mild to severe. Sometimes this pain gets worse while climbing stairs, walking or even sitting for a prolonged amount of time. The main cause of runner’s knee is pushing oneself too hard when running or performing jumping exercises. Doctors usually diagnose runner’s knee by giving their patient a physical exam or X-ray. The best way to treat runner’s knee is with physical therapy.
• Shin splints: Shin splints occur along the shin bones. Overexerting oneself when running is usually the cause of shin splints. Symptoms of shin splints can include pain along the shin and swelling. These injuries usually aren’t that serious but can turn into stress fractures if you avoid getting the right amount of rest.
• Hamstring issues: The hamstrings are a series of muscles found between the hip and the knee. Hamstring tears and strains are issues that distance runners can sometimes experience. They usually involve pain in the upper leg and possibly some weakness in the hamstrings. The best way to avoid hamstring injuries is by properly warming up before running. This might include some light stretching and/or jogging. If you do experience a hamstring injury, it’s a good idea to elevate and ice your leg. Be sure to visit a doctor if the injury seems severe.
• Achilles tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendons in one’s legs. As with many injuries mentioned on this list, Achilles tendinitis is usually caused by overworking yourself when running. Symptoms of this injury can include pain in your lower leg, swelling and limited range of motion. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to rest your leg. Achilles tendinitis could result in a tendon rupture if not treated properly.

Running injuries are all too common. That’s why it’s important to take proper precautions to avoid common running injuries, whether you’re a very experienced runner or just starting out. If you are experiencing any of these injuries, it’s best to see a doctor right away. If the injury is bad enough, they may recommend you start a physical therapy program. For great physical therapy at fair prices, contact Focus Forward Wellness & Physical Therapy.

Categorised in: Sports Injury Doctor

This post was written by Writer