Running is one of the most thrilling habits to have, and it has a surprisingly low barrier to entry. Not only can you get a decent amount of exercise out of it, but you can also take in the beauty of nature as you do so. However, it isn’t exactly a risk-free activity. You can potentially experience some injuries, especially if you have an improper running gait.
Injuries make it difficult for runners to get back on their feet, so it’s necessary to learn how to avoid them and treat them properly should they occur. Consulting physiologists and undergoing running assessments are some of the best ways to do so. With this, here are some essential things to know about running injuries and physiotherapy:
What Are Some Common Running Injuries?
The repetitive impacts caused by running can cause various injuries, such as:
- Runner’s Knee: This condition is one of the most common injuries caused by running, and it involves pain in front of or around the knee. There may also be a popping or cracking sensation when moving the knees after periods of being stationary. It can affect one or both knees.
- Hamstring Injuries: The hamstrings assist in decelerating the lower leg during the swing phase of running. Injuries to these muscles may lead to dull pain, weakness, and tenderness in the back of the upper legs. Distance runners are more susceptible to this condition.
- Achilles Tendinitis: The Achilles tendon connects the calf muscles to the heel. In Achilles tendinitis, this connective tissue swells up and causes pain, limiting your motion. The tendon may rupture if left untreated.
What Causes Running Injuries?
Many factors contribute to running injuries. Although running every day will not cause damage per se, excessive stress without adequate rest can make you more susceptible to developing injuries. Footwear, body weight, muscle imbalances, nutrition, and lifestyle factors also play a significant role.
One of the more often overlooked causes of injuries, however, is poor running gait. Without the proper techniques, you may be putting yourself at risk for accidents.
Can Physiotherapy Help with Running Injuries?
Physiotherapy involves a thorough assessment of your injuries and medical history. Physiotherapists will determine the cause and specific diagnosis of your injury and formulate a personalised treatment plan for your particular case. They’ll help you manage the damage and assist you in getting back on your feet pain-free.
Some physiotherapists also offer running gait analysis to assess your techniques. They will provide actionable insights to help you avoid any future injuries.
When Should I Get Help?
It’s best to contact a physiotherapist before any issues develop. You can have a running assessment at any time to correct improper loading and gait. Doing so will help prevent injuries from developing. If you’re experiencing pain that hasn’t gone away for some time, it’s also advisable to visit professionals to avoid worsening the situation.
Get Injury Prevention Physiotherapy Today
Running may seem like the simplest form of exercise, but it requires a significant amount of skill and bodily control to do it properly. Improper techniques and gait can cause running injuries such as runner’s knee, hamstring injuries, and Achilles tendonitis. Physiotherapy can help treat these conditions and prevent them from happening in the first place.
If you’re looking for injury prevention physiotherapy in Bondi Junction, Invigor Health has you covered. We offer personalised rehabilitation plans for your injuries and running assessments to help you stay pain-free in the long term. Let us help—book a consultation today!
