(Colin Boyle Images)
Injuries are a part of any sport. An injury is any damage or disorder that causes significant change or even cessation of athlete's normal running routine. This is an absolute but unfortunate truth. As athletes and coaches we know that injuries are bad and can be season ending. Sometimes these injuries may be even career ending. If we know this as coaches why is the rate of injury among runners still as high as it was 30 years ago?
Runners experience all types of injuries. But are most of these injuries preventable? As runners and coaches we have had at one time or another exhibited symptoms of an injury. Below is a brief list of those injuries that many runners deal with at one time or another.
Common Injuries
1.Shin Splints (Medial tibial stress syndrome) - Pain around the tibia (shin bone).
Prevention: Increase mileage slowly and make sure you have appropriate shoes.
2. Runner's Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome) - Pain under the patella (kneecap).
Prevention: Shorten stride length, strengthen hips and glute muscles.
3. Plantar Fascitiis - Pain on the ligaments that run from your toes to heel.
Prevention: Proper running shoes, stretch and massage the fascia in the foot several times a day.
4. Achilles Tendonitis - Tendon that connects the calf muscles together becomes inflamed due to tightness.
Prevention: Strong Calves, heel drops, avoiding flip flops and heels.
5. Iliotibial Syndrome - Fascia that connects the hip to the knee.
Prevention: Strengthen hip abductors, single leg squats, steps ups, shorten stride length.