5 Common Running Injuries – And How to Prevent Them

Running has become a very popular way for people to manage a healthy lifestyle. Sustaining a running injury can delay all the progress someone has made, especially if the injury is serious. In America alone, almost 40 million people run daily.

All runners at some point will experience an injury, whether it be shin splints or a twisted ankle. Read on to learn more about the most common running injuries and how you can prevent them in the future.

Shin Splints

Tibial stress syndrome is pain associated with the front areas of your legs, along the length of your shinbone. Shin splints are most common for runners who repeatedly exercise on hard surfaces like tarmac or those who run too quickly.

Treatment is usually just some rest; however, if you continue to exercise, you can develop stress fractures. This will mean a longer recovery period. Preventing shin splints is as easy as running on a softer surface, and investing in quality running shoes with good padding.

Runner’s Knee

Also known as patellofemoral syndrome, this mouthful is a general term for pain in your knee. This injury is usually sustained from jumping or running very fast. Pain ranges from mild discomfort to severe aches.

To prevent this injury, make sure the muscles around your hips and kneecaps are strong. This may require knee bracing for additional support. To find out more about available options for knee bracing, check out Kneecare Clinics.

Plantar Fasciitis

This injury occurs to the bottom of your feet. There is a thick layer of tissue called the fascia, and running too quickly can irritate the area. The fascia is a protective layer between your soft tissue and the ground, working similarly to a spring.

Symptoms of this injury are usually worse in the morning and after long periods of physical activity. Pain may develop gradually over time and many people have a burning feeling in the soles of their feet.

Meniscal Tear

Most common in contact sports, meniscal tears occur when too much pressure is placed on the knee joint. Sports that require the knees to bend often are prone to this type of injury, and it can cause the knee to lock up.

Physical therapy can help to improve the joint’s strength and, in serious cases, surgery may be required. Preventing this injury can be done by strengthening the front thigh muscles with isometric exercises.

Anterior Compartment Syndrome

This is the most serious condition on this list and occurs when there is too much pressure built up in one of the muscle compartments. This includes tissue, nerves, blood vessels, and membranes that protect your muscles. When there is too much pressure, it can cut off blood flow to the area and, in severe cases, necrosis sets in where a limb may need to be amputated.

Runner’s injuries are common and all runners will experience at least one in their fitness routine. Some running injuries are more critical and require medical attention, but most just need rest from physical exercise. Prevention is always better than cure, and these injuries can be managed with ease.