By Anna Trnka, Physiotherapist
What Causes Running Injuries?
There is no denying it: Runners love to run. Whether it’s the sense of freedom and happiness that a solo run though nature gives you, the burn in your muscles after pushing yourself extra hard in today’s session or the sense of achievement from ticking off that next milestone or goal.
There is also no denying the injury rates amongst both recreational and professional runners. Up to 70% of recreational and competitive runners sustain overuse injuries during any 12-month period. We have all been there and we know what it’s like to be sidelined by a running injury.
How to prevent and treat running injuries?
Common running injuries affect the muscles, joints and tendons of our lower limbs.They often start out slowly and can build up over time. Training errors, muscle weaknesses and poor technique are all common contributing factors to the onset of running injuries. Fortunately with guidance from our Physiotherapists, all of these causes are treatable AND preventable. At Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy, our goal is always to get you back running ASAP.
Training errors
Running is hard work on the body! Add to that, runners are usually keen as green beans and sometimes do a little too much too soon. Our bodies are incredibly adaptive and respond to load. If you go to the gym and pick weights up, your muscles will get stronger. However when we load our bodies too quickly or in the wrong way our muscles, tendons and joints start to suffer. Read more about how to monitor load here.
Muscle weaknesses
Most runners think that to improve their running, they just need to run more. While this is a good start, you need to ensure that your body is strong enough to handle the load you are putting it under. Upon assessment most people with running injuries have muscles weakness or imbalances that are contributing to extra stress being placed on the affected muscles tendons and joints. Read more about strength training for runners here.
Poor Technique
Humans are designed to run but we all have our own running styles, some prettier than others! Not everyone needs to run smoothly and beautifully like Olympic Gold Medalists!
If you have sustained an injury from playing tennis or are just keen on a targeted, individualised injury prevention program book in with one of our Physiotherapists today!
Melbourne Sports Physiotherapy
Melbourne Sports Physio has a range of qualified and experienced professionals who can help provide ongoing support and treatment. Our friendly team are located in across Melbourne in Essendon, North Melbourne and Blackburn South, and appointments can be made by calling or booking online.