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How to Prevent Running Injuries

Overtraining and overusing the feet are the main causes of common running injuries. A number of these common injuries are caused by overrunning. Runner’s knee is a condition that is characterized by the back of the kneecap beginning to wear away and cause pain in the knee. This frequently occurs due to either a decrease in strength in the quadriceps muscles or ill-fitting shoes that are lacking in proper support for the inside of the forefoot. Strengthening exercises focusing on the quad muscle and sports orthotics are the usual treatments for those suffering from runner’s knee. Prevention of the condition lies in a focus on hip strengthening and quad-strengthening to keep the kneecap aligned. To help learn the best exercise to heal runner’s knee, one can also undergo physical therapy.

One common injury, called iliotibial band syndrome, is often caused by overtraining. This condition occurs when the iliotibial band gets irritated, creating pain and discomfort in the outside knee area. Plantar fasciitis, another common running injury, also occurs as a result of inflammation and irritation. Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation and irritation of the bone in the foot. A large amount of pain is often experienced due to plantar fasciitis. The condition can be caused by a high arch, improper footwear, tight muscles, or flat feet. It can best be avoided by stretching and wearing appropriate footwear that supports the foot.

Another common injury for runners is stress fractures. These injuries occur due to running style, overtraining, or a lack of calcium. Stress fractures most often occur in several locations in runners, including the inner bone of the leg, the thighbone, the bone at the base of the spine and the bones of the toes. Stress fractures are best prevented by wearing proper footwear and by running on flat and hard surfaces; this will absorb some of the shock created during running.

Aside from overtraining, other causes of common running injuries include ill-fitting footwear, a lack of flexibility and strength, and irregular biomechanics. The best way to avoid running injuries is to prevent them from even occurring. Both iliotibial band syndrome and stress fractures are preventable. The first step that should be taken to prevent running injuries is to only wear footwear that fits properly and that is appropriate for whatever activity you are doing. Running shoes are the only protective gear available to runners that can safeguard them from sustaining injuries. Choosing the right pair of shoes is therefore extremely important. While running shoes are an important factor, it is also important to consider other facets of your running routine such as training schedules, flexibility, and strengthening. These elements should be considered and altered according to your running needs to best maximize your run and minimize the possibility of injury. Careful stretching before and after a run should also be considered to help prevent running injuries. Stretching muscles enables greater flexibility and a lesser chance of sustaining injury.

The information provided in this article is not meant to be medical advice and is for educational purposes only. If you would like to learn more about topics related to podiatry, feel free to contact Family Foot & Ankle Centers by clicking here or calling 972-597-4132 to reach our Waxahachie office, 903-872-9910 to reach our Corsicana office, or  972-875-3668 to reach our Ennis office.

Your Top-Rated & Favorite Podiatrist In Waxahachie, TX…

Dr. Moody is a wonderful doctor. I love how detailed he is and takes is time explaining things. Dr. Moody will make sure his patients are well taken care of. He helped me with my foot pain. I will continue to see him for my foot needs. I highly recommend him to everyone who is in need of a foot doctor!

- Elizabeth F.

elizabeth 5 star

I had a great experience at Family Foot & Ankle, the staff is great, the doctors are awesome. It’s a very beautiful clean clinic. They helped me with my toe pain. I will definitely recommend this clinic to anyone with foot or ankle issues. Thanks everyone.

- Isael M.
isael 5 star review

This office is convenient, friendly, and concerned. The staff is very helpful and caring. Doctor Cruz and Dr. Moody are informative and knowledgeable, very caring and want to help relieve your pain and discomfort. They have the newest treatments and medicines for you.

- Donna C.
donna 5 star review

If you are looking for a Podiatrist look no further. This clinic has taken care of my son. It was so nice to go in and have the entire staff make us feel welcomed and answer all of our questions. We got in quickly and the x-rays are done in the clinic.

- Krystal B.
krystal 5 star review

*The reviews listed are from actual patients of Family Foot & Ankle Centers. Individual results may vary. Reviews are not claimed to represent results for everyone.

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WAXAHACHIE OFFICE
1505 W Jefferson Street
Suite 170
Waxahachie, TX 75165

Phone: 972-597-4132
Fax: 855-874-7393

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm

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CORSICANA OFFICE
3229 W 7th Ave
Corsicana, TX 75110

Phone: 903-872-9910     
Fax: 855-874-7393

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm

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ENNIS OFFICE
601 S Clay St Suite 105
Ennis, TX 75119

Phone: 972-875-3668  
Fax: 855-874-7393>

Hours:
Monday - Friday
8:30 am - 5:00 pm

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