Running Injuries

There often frequent aches and pains that are associated with running, whether that is on track, road, treadmill or on softer ground. In addition there are injuries which result from running. The more common of these are listed below:

1: Pes Planus: Also known as flat feet, this condition can be congenital or can develop over a period of time. The collapse of the longitudinal (medial) arch of the foot is the reason pes planus occurs. Running increases the force of weight through the foot, which can develop this condition. In runners pes planus leads to overuse injuries such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fascitis.

2: Achilles tendonitis: An overuse injury involving the Achilles tendon, (the tendon connecting the muscles of your calf in the back of your lower leg to your heel bone). The Achilles tendon becomes inflamed or irritated, often at the point of attachment of the tendon to the heel bone.

3: Plantar fascitis: Again, an overuse injury affecting the sole of the foot. The plantar fascia is a tough, fibrous band of tissue (fascia) connecting your heel bone to the base of your toes which helps to maintain the arch of the foot. When the plantar fascia becomes over stressed as a result of excessive running tension builds up along the fascia, leading to pain and inflammation. This can more commonly be felt on the sole of the foot towards the heel.

4: Shin Splints: Although it is listed here, it is in fact a symptom rather than a diagnosis and refers to tears in the tissues that hold the muscles on to your shin bone (tibia). It is usually seen in athletes who suddenly increase their duration or intensity of training, or first time runners who have been running excessively in the early stages. It is one of the most common running injuries.

If you are serious about running, it is always advisable to seek advice from David as an osteopath, who will be able to support you to ensure that your body effortless adjusts to your new regime. In addition to this, regular osteopathic treatment can increase a runner’s performance, by simple measures such as increasing range of motion and by reducing the risk of a injury.