5 Common Injuries for Runners in Arcadia

Running is the simplest way to get cardio exercise, but it also makes you more prone to injury. If you’re an athlete, watch out for five of the most common injuries for runners. If you experience any pain or swelling in your knees, legs, or feet, visit the ortho and chiro specialists at SMART Spine Institute and Surgery Center in Arcadia for fast, effective treatment. We have Orthopaedic and Podiatrist surgeons on staff to better serve you.

Plantar Fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a flat, connective band running from the back of your heel to your toes. This creates the arch of your foot. When this band becomes stretched and strained, you can develop a condition called plantar fasciitis. This results in a sharp, tight pain in your heel and the bottom of your foot.

Achilles Tendonitis

When your Achilles tendon becomes inflamed, you experience pain in your lower calf muscle right above your ankle. Wearing the wrong shoes, suddenly increasing your training intensity, or failing to stretch before you hit the pavement can result in Achilles tendonitis.

Shin Splints

Long runs on hard surfaces or training harder than usual can cause shin splints. Several running injuries fit into this category of injuries for runners. Essentially, it describes any pain down the front of the lower legs. Irritated muscles or tendons are the most likely reason for your discomfort, but sometimes, shin pain is caused by stress fractures along the tibia.

IT Band Syndrome

The iliotibial (IT) band is a tendon connecting your hip to your knee. When it becomes inflamed, you may experience stabbing pain in your knee when you run. Because running at an angle places undue stress on the sides of your knees, avoid hills and sideways-sloped roads to help prevent IT band syndrome.

Patellar Tendonitis

Also called jumper’s knee, patellar tendonitis occurs when the patellar tendon running from your kneecap to the top of the tibia becomes inflamed from tiny micro-tears. Athletes who run, jump and kick are most likely to experience this injury, which causes tenderness and swelling behind the knee.

Treat Running Injuries with Orthopedic & Chiropractic Care In Arcadia

If you have any of these running injuries, schedule an appointment at SMART Spine Institute and Surgery Center in Arcadia. We provide the orthopedic and chiropractic care you need, including innovative PRP injections, to help you heal from your injury quickly and prevent re-injury when you return to the track. Contact us at 626-513-0840 to schedule your free chiro and orthopedic consultation today.