Running Injuries

Nearly every runner has experienced inflammation and pain in the tendons and muscles of the lower leg. Shin splints are more likely to occur after you change your workout routine. Reducing your running, using over-the-counter pain relievers, and icing are all recommended treatments for shin splints.

Officially named patellofemoral pain syndrome, this condition generally refers to the breakdown of cartilage under the kneecap. According to Runner’s World approximately 40 percent of injuries sustained by runners are in the knee. While runner’s knee will often improve on its own, sometimes physical therapy is needed to improve the condition.

This is an injury that occurs in the heal and often results in pain and swelling. Running in old or poor quality shoes can cause this condition. Icing, elevating the foot to reduce swelling, and wearing shoe inserts are treatment options used to improve Achilles tendonitis. It’s also important to remember that strong calves will help to prevent relapses.

Of all the various sports injuries, this is one that not only affects runners but can happen to almost anyone who walks a lot or stands on their feet for extensive periods of time. With this injury you can feel pain throughout the arch or the heal. This injury can often be treated with rest and a better pair of shoes. Shoe inserts may also help.

Many people think “sprains” and “strains” are synonymous; however, they have one distinct difference. Sprains occur when a tendon is stretched beyond its limits or torn, while strains occur when a ligament is stretched beyond its limits or torn. Tendons are tissues that connect muscles to bones, and ligaments are tissues that connect bones to one another. Sprains and strains can both range from mild to severe, and even mild ones may take up to 6 weeks to heal. When they become more severe, braces or surgical correction may be necessary. This will require a longer recovery time, up to 8 weeks or longer, and physical therapy treatments will likely be prescribed.