Running can lead to several common foot injuries, such as plantar fasciitis, stress fractures, Achilles tendinopathy, and shin splints. These conditions often result from overuse, poor running form, wearing shoes that lack adequate support, or a sudden increase in training intensity. Risk factors include flat feet, high arches, tight muscles, and inadequate warm-up routines. Prevention involves wearing proper footwear, stretching regularly, and gradually increasing activity levels. A podiatrist can assess foot structure, diagnose injuries, and provide custom orthotics, and guidance on safe training habits. If you are experiencing foot pain related to running, it is suggested that you visit a podiatrist who can treat various foot and ankle injuries, and guide you on effective running injury prevention tips.
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 Afshin Javaherian, DPM of Dr. Java Foot & Ankle Clinic. Our doctor 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 Los Angeles, CA . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.
