Running Injuries and How to Manage Them
The Thrill of the Run!
Don’t you just love the feeling of the wind blowing past your body when running at full speed! There is nothing that can compare to this thrill and excitement when you just let go of the control and run. However, when running, you are pushing your body to its limits which can result in an injury. As the strain is mostly on your leg’s joints, the chances are that you may injure one or more of these joints.
Here we will look at a few common injuries that can occur due to running and how to manage them.
Runner’s Knee
This is one of the most common injury faced by runners. You should know that your knees are carrying the weight of your entire body and when you run, the strain can get really high. This usually happens when the alignment of your kneecap gets out of position.
The best way to manage this injury is to stop running and ice the area. Depending on the severity of the injury, you might need to stop running for some time. The knee cap may need to be taped to provide support and reduce pain. You may also be adviced by your physiotherapist to perform certain strengthening and stretching exercises for your quad muscles.
Shin Splint
If you change your running routine suddenly then you might end up with pain at the side or front of your shin bone. This injury is common in people with flat feet or among people who work out too much. The best way to manage this injury is to:
- Stop running or exerting your body for at least 2 weeks
- Go for low impact exercise such as biking or swimming
- Perform icing on the shins if the pain persists
- Always stretch and warm up before work out
- Avoid running or jumping on hard surfaces
- Use good quality running shoes
If your shins still ache after taking the above mentioned precautions after 4 weeks, you should consult with Monarch Physiotherapy Clinic in Calgary.
Achilles Tendinitis
This injury occurs around the tendon that attaches to the back of the heel and the calf due to an increase in stress levels to the tendon. Stiffness and pain are common with Achilles tendonitis and the best way to proceed is to give your body the time and rest to heal.
You can manage this injury in the following ways:
- Stop running for avoid worsening the condition
- Perform eccentric stretches, specifically for the calf muscles
- Perform exercises at soft surfaces
- Icing the area
If the pain persists and prevents you from regular day activities like walking to the nearby grocery shop, then you need to visit Monarch Physiotherapy Clinic in Calgary for a proper examination.
Conclusion
No matter the injury, with time, rest and, if needed, medication and physiotherapy, you can get back to your old routine in no time. However, make sure that you don’t start running right away, rather start out slow and work your way up to running!
