Running injuries can affect runners of all levels, from beginners to seasoned athletes. Achilles pain, characterized by discomfort and swelling at the back of the ankle or heel, is a common ailment resulting from the repetitive strain of running. Heel pain, often associated with plantar fasciitis, can feel like a sharp sensation when pressure is applied to the heel or bottom of the foot. To prevent such running injuries, it's important to take proactive measures. First and foremost, wearing the right shoes is essential, but remember, expensive doesn't always mean better. Additionally, warming up properly before a run with brisk walking or gentle jogging for five to 10 minutes can prepare muscles and reduce the risk of injury. Similarly, cooling down post-run with easy-paced jogging or walking helps muscle recovery. Last, avoid the temptation to increase running intensity or distance too rapidly. Build up your running regimen gradually by increasing distance and duration a week at a time. By utilizing these methods, runners can minimize the likelihood of common running injuries. If foot or ankle pain from running persists or worsens, it is suggested that you seek help from 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 John Killough, DPM of Regional Foot Center. 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 our offices located in Charleston and Effingham, IL . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.