Many athletes are aware of the risk factors that can develop from running. Many running injuries can cause serious lower extremity issues. It is important to be aware of prevention methods that can help you to avoid such an injury. Common risk factors can include training beyond your skill level, poor sleep and nutritional habits, poor postural control, and over stressing your body. Not properly stretching before or after a run can severely increase your risk of obtaining an injury. Stress fractures, plantar fasciitis, and sprained ankles, are a few conditions that are commonly associated with running injuries. For additional information on prevention methods, as well as treatment options if you do become injured while running, it is recommended that you consult with a podiatrist for proper care.
All runners should take extra precaution when trying to avoid injury. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Steven Sheridan of Ankle & Foot Specialty Clinics. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.
How to Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of mistakes a runner can make prior to a workout that can induce injury. A lot of athletes tend to overstretch before running, instead of saving those workouts for a post-run routine. Deep lunges and hand-to-toe hamstring pulls should be performed after a workout instead of during a warmup. Another common mistake is jumping into an intense routine before your body is physically prepared for it. You should try to ease your way into long-distance running instead of forcing yourself to rush into it.
More Tips for Preventing Injury
- Incorporate Strength Training into Workouts - This will help improve the body’s overall athleticism
- Improve and Maintain Your Flexibility – Stretching everyday will help improve overall performance
- “Warm Up” Before Running and “Cool Down” Afterward – A warm up of 5-10 minutes helps get rid of lactic acid in the muscles and prevents delayed muscle soreness
- Cross-Training is Crucial
- Wear Proper Running Shoes
- Have a Formal Gait Analysis – Poor biomechanics can easily cause injury
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact our office located in Sandusky, MI . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
