Running is a great sport to get into for your overall physical fitness, but it can be tough on the feet and ankles if you don’t first take measures to prevent injuries. If you are new to running, or resuming running after a long break, you may be able to reduce the risk of injury by stretching for a week prior to beginning to run. This will help loosen stiff joints and tissues. You should also incorporate stretching into your warm-up before each run. Wear running shoes that fit properly and offer adequate support, and replace them when they become worn out. If you do find that you have experienced an injury, stop running and consult with a podiatrist who can diagnose your condition, offer the right treatments, and help get you back on your feet.
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. LeKeisha George from Forest Hills Podiatric Medical Care. Dr. George 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 Forest Hills, NY. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.