Runners’ Nightmares!
If you are an avid runner, chances are you have run into some kind of foot or lower extremity problems. Think about it: the action of running involves the repetitive pounding of the foot on surfaces and sends shock waves up your body.
It is important to understand that running too soon, running too fast, or running too long are the major causes of running injuries. The conditions you may experience are your body’s way of telling you to stop overworking it!
What are some common running ailments?
Stiff Calves
Novice runners may experience tight and stiff calf muscles and is intimately associated with the Achilles tendon. This tendon comes from your calf muscles and joins the heel to your leg. If your body is not used to exercising the calf muscles and associated structures, you will definitely experience an ache on the back of your leg.
Runner’s Knee
Have you ever walked, climbed stairs, or ran and felt a grinding and grating in your knee joint accompanied by severe pain? If so, Runner’s Knee may be one cause! This ailment is caused by an unstable patella. (The patella is your kneecap).
Shin Splints
Running on hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete may lead to the development of shin splints. Shin splints is that burning, irritating pain originating from the center of your lower leg. Without rest or treatment, shin splints may progress into stress fractures!
What is the best way to treat running injuries?
Stiff Calves
Make sure that prior to starting your running routine that your calves experience a full, deep stretch. You can build up the area by rising on to your toes one foot at a time, holding that position for a count of five and then lowering it.
Runner’s Knee
The best way to alleviate this condition is to ease off of the physical activity for a week and work to strengthen the muscles around the knee. To improve muscle strength clench your thigh muscles as often as you can in sets of 5. It’s a simple way to work the muscles that connect to your patella.
Shin Splints
To reduce the occurrence of shin splints, it is advised to run on soft surfaces such as grass while wearing shoes with ample cushioning. You may have to hold off on running for an extended period of time.
Different injuries require different modes of treatment, but the tried-and-true methods always involve prevention and a good stretching regimen. Watch and pace yourself when exercising – do not overdo it! And of course, ALWAYS seek a podiatrist’s consult when evaluating the intensity of the injury and deciding on the best treatment option!
101 6th Street N.W.
Winter Haven, FL 33881
Phone: 863-299-4551
http://www.flfootandankle.com
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