Common Running Injuries

Running is a great way to both get healthy and stay healthy. However, without proper precautions, foot and ankle injuries can occur. Below are some common foot and ankle-related running injuries that you must be aware of so you don't get stopped in your tracks.

Plantar Fasciitis- is an inflammation of a fibrous band of tissue in the bottom of the foot that extends from the heel bone to the toes. This tissue can become inflamed for many reasons, most commonly from irritation by placing too much stress on the bottom of the foot.

This can be prevented by stretching both before and after you run. The proper stretching should be gentle and should not be painful. Wearing supportive running shoes that are appropiate for your foot type, as well as shoe inserts, can also be effective.

Morton's Neuroma- is often described by runners as a burning, stinging pain in the forefoot. Other symptoms include pain in the ball of the foot and a feeling of "pins and needles" and nubness to the toe. Runners who wear tight-fitting footwear often experience this condition.

A podiatrists may administer a cortisone injection to provide relief for a Morton's Neuroma, and recommend a wider pair of running footwear. A professional  gait anlysis, paired with customized foot orthotics, can often prevent the condition from reoccurring. Occasionally, surgical removal of the neuroma is necessary.

Shin Splints- also referred to as "tibial stress syndrome," shin splints affect runners of all ages and are commonly experienced as a shooting pain felt near the front or sides of one or both tibia bones.

Shin splints can be treated immeadiately with ice and anti-inflammatory medications. A podiatrists may also recommend a physical therapy program, as well as testing to determine if prescription orthotic inserts could prevent further injury.

Stress Fractures- in the lower limbs are common among athletes in general, and are commonly caused by repetitive forces on these areas. Symptoms include localized pain and swelling that grows worse nd worse over time. Stress fractures can occur over a period of days, weeks, or even months.

Stress fractures are like any other fracture in the body and require 8-10 weeks to heal completely. Treatments may include complete rest icing, immobilization using casting or bracing of the affected area.

Achilles Tendonitis- An ailment that accounts for a large number of running injuries, Achilles tendonitis is an irritation or inflammation of the large tendon in the back of the lower calf that attaches to the back of the heel. The condition is often caused by lack of flexibility and overpronation.

Ice and OTC anit- inflammatory medications can be taken in the short term. Resting the affected limb is vital for quick recovery. A podiatrists may recommend immobilization in more severe cases to allow the area to heel faster.

Don't let these scare you from running, just be aware to take the proper precautions if running is a common hobby or sport. And of course if you if you think you may have one of these injuries please see your podiatrists right away.

If you need more information or would like to schedule an appointment please contact Affilaited Podiatrists, Inc. at 440-946-5858 or visit our website http://www.drrobertrosenstein.com/

Don't forget to order your free copy of Dr. Rosenstein's book off our website!

And Remember.........."When Your Feet Hurt, You Hurt All Over!"