Running can be one of the healthiest activities someone can do. However, there is always a risk of getting injured. The first step to limiting running injuries involves getting the proper footwear. Having shoes that are made for running, and making sure they fit correctly is a great initial step in preventing injury. Second, make sure to warm-up properly and listen to your body if something doesn't feel right. Next, make sure your body has time to rest and recover. Alternating between different exercise activities each day so the muscles have time to rebuild and repair can also be beneficial in injury prevention. Lastly, make sure to build strength in the legs since new runners are more susceptible to injury. If you have just taken up running, and you are looking to prevent an injury, consult with a podiatrist for advice and techniques you can follow.
Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. James D. McAlexander of Gig Harbor Foot and Ankle Clinic. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.
What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.
Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.
If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Gig Harbor, WA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
