Incurring a running injury can ruin any day for the avid runner. There are simple methods that can be done that may help to prevent running injuries. The importance of warming up and cooling down before and after running is crucial in keeping the muscles flexible. This is necessary for keeping the tendons and ligaments healthy as running is practiced. It is beneficial to pay attention to the body, and foot pain for any reason may need prompt medical attention. Existing foot pain may cause the body to compromise on gait and balance, and there are three key factors that experienced runners implement to prevent injuries. A muscle’s potential to reach its full range of motion and flexibility can be increased when soft tissue elasticity is increased. Performing simple stretches can improve joint mobility, in addition to running becoming easier. Muscle activation is needed while running, and this is done by improving tissue elasticity and joint mobility. For additional tips on how running injuries can affect the feet and how to prevent them, please confer with a podiatrist.

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 Barry P. Weinstein, DPM of Bellaire Podiatry. 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 one of our offices located in Bellaire and Houston, TX . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.