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Running Injuries

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Running Injuries
There are many benefits of running. From releasing negative energy to burning excess weight, there’s no doubt your body is taking advantage of physical activity when running. Unfortunately there are some negative effects as well. Running causes injuries, but by identifying symptoms, they can be treated and prevented. Many injuries include runner’s knee, intestinal distress, Achilles tendinitis, and shin splints. According to Cross Country Running, “65% of all runners will be injured in any year”. Each of these injuries can be treated and prevented by correct practices. Runner’s knee is caused by irritation and stress near the knee cap. The formal diagnosis is called Patellofemoral pain syndrome or PFPS. Some reasons runners …show more content…

The Achilles tendon is located behind the ankle and runs into the calf muscle. The tendon is usually strong and healthy, but under repetitive stretch and strain it can become weak. This is caused by stress directly placed on the tendon, it tightens, and then the tendon over-works itself (Runner´s World). This can be extremely painful and is most commonly felt as sharp or dull pain constantly while running, especially when leaning forward during the stride. Achilles tendinitis includes ¨limited ankle flexibility, redness or heat over the painful area, a nodule (a lumpy buildup of scar tissue that can be felt on the tendon, or a cracking sound (scar tissue rubbing against the tendon) when the ankle moves¨ (Runner’s World). If you feel these symptoms stop running! The problem will only continue to get worse, the pain will increase, and the damage won't stop until you stop running. Runner's World suggests the following treatment of ¨taking aspirin or ibuprofen, and icing the area for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day until the inflammation subsides...stretching the calf muscles.” Try combining these methods to heal the tendon and ease the pain. Try other exercises to stay in shape and continue being active. Runner´s World suggests trying “swimming, pool running, and bicycling.” If self-help doesn't help within a few weeks it would be wise to visit a physical …show more content…

Strengthening the calf and shin muscles will reduce strain on the bone and absorb shock. “Increasing your stride by 10% or so to avoid overstriding and excessive impact” will help as well as wearing simple over the counter shoe inserts to straighten legs while running. The Ultimate Guide to Prevent Pain Shin Splints for Runners also suggests taking a calcium/vitamin D supplement with 200% of your recommended daily value to reduce stress fractures by 25% to prevent a worse injury. As a new runner becomes accustomed to running, their bones will strengthen and become thicker and stronger after straining runs. Be aware that shin splints are similar to stress fractures, so if your pain increases, stop

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