Monday, March 11, 2013

Blog Post 8: The Common Injuries from Running


Whenever we think of running, the first thing that comes in our minds is the health benefits running can give. It is very unlikely to talk about the injuries runners acquire during running.
 Running is a very easy and simple exercise that anyone can participate, running can offer health benefits and outstanding physical condition but with improper knowledge and mindset, running can be tedious which can lead to muscle strains and other injuries.

Upon researching for the other benefits of running, I stumble upon internet articles about the common injuries a runner can suffer while running. According to the online article from WebMD.com, most running injuries occur when the runner push his or her body to its limits. Some of the reasons of these injuries are adding more distance, improper equipments used and body mechanics. In this article WebMD list the Common Injuries in Running:

Runner's knee. This is a common overuse injury. Runner's knee has several different causes. But it's commonly due to the kneecap being out of alignment.

Stress fracture. This is a small crack in a bone that causes pain and discomfort. It typically affects runners in the shin and feet. It is often due to going too hard before your body gets used to a new activity.

Achilles tendinitis. This is inflammation of the Achilles tendon. Achilles tendinitis causes pain and stiffness in the area of the tendon, especially in the morning and with activity. It is usually caused by repetitive stress to the tendon, often due to increasing running distance too quickly. Tight calf muscles can also contribute.

Muscle pull. A small tear in your muscle, also called a muscle strain, often caused by overstretching of a muscle. If you suffer a pulled muscle, you may feel a popping sensation when the muscle tears.

Plantar fasciitis. An inflammation of the plantar fascia. People with tight calf muscles and a high arch are more prone to plantar fasciitis. Although it may be linked to an increase in activity, plantar fasciitis may occur without any identifiable reason.


Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS). This syndrome causes pain on the outside of the knee. The iliotibial band is a ligament that runs along the outside of the thigh, from the top of the hip to the outside of the knee. ITBS occurs when this ligament thickens and rubs the knee bone, causing inflammation. Long-distance runners are more likely to develop ITBS.

Blisters. These are fluid-filled sacks on the surface of the skin. They are caused by friction between your shoes/socks and skin.

Temperature-related injuries. These includes sunburn, heat exhaustion, frostbite and hypothermia.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/running-injuries-causes-prevention-treatment
Source: http://thumbnails.visually.netdna-cdn.com/common-running-injuries_502911845694d.jpg


The main reason in running is to be physically fit and healthy proper knowledge and preparation in running can help lessen the chances of injuries and making your run enjoyable and injury free.


It is better to know the injuries and health risk before running, it is best to consult a doctor and undergo physical examinations to prevent getting injured and if the runner is capable in running. As an old saying says, “ Prevention is better than cure.”


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