The 5 Most Common Running Injuries

Running is one of the most effective ways for you and your loved ones to stay fit and healthy. Maintaining a six-mile per hour pace can potentially burn 557 calories in just one hour. However, for all of its benefits, running can often come with its fair share of injuries with the potential to sideline you for extended periods of time. The best way to avoid these crippling pains is to know and understand them. The following is a list of the five most common running injuries.

Pulled Muscles

A pulled muscle, or muscle strain, is a small tear that often occurs when the muscle fibers are overstretched. This injury is commonly characterized by a popping sensation when it occurs.

Shin Splints

Shin splint pain typically appears on the front or inside of the leg along the shinbone. Runners will often feel the effects of this injury with changes in their workout, such as running longer distances or increasing their running frequency.

Achilles Tendinitis

Repetitive stress to the Achilles tendon, which attaches the calf to the back of the heel, can lead to inflammation and pain. Other risk factors of Achilles tendinitis include tight calf muscles and increasing your running distances.

Runner’s Knee

Runner’s knee is one of the most common overuse injuries. While there are many different causes behind it, it tends to happen when the kneecap is not aligned properly. As you age, the cartilage on the kneecap can deteriorate, which can subsequently lead to pain when walking up stairs, squatting or sitting with bent knees for long periods of time.

Stress Fractures

Pushing your body too hard can often lead to stress fractures which typically occur in the shins or feet. These small cracks in your bones cause pain and discomfort. They can worsen if you continue to push your body before it adapts to higher activity levels.

Let Us Help

You don’t have to live with the pain and discomfort associated with a running injury. It’s time to start the race for a pain-free life. The board-certified pain management specialists at Total Pain Care are ready to evaluate your injury and provide the treatment that best fits your needs. Contact our location in New Jersey for more information today

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