If you are a runner, then you are likely no stranger to foot and ankle injuries. Running can put immense strain on the lower limbs, leading to conditions such as plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, ankle strains and sprains, and stress fractures. Fortunately, there are steps that you can take to avoid foot and ankle injuries while running. The most important thing you can do to prevent injuries is train slowly. Increase the mileage, duration, or intensity of your runs separately and gradually over time, and give yourself plenty of time to rest following a run. It is also important that you wear properly fitted shoes that support and protect your feet. For more information about preventing running injuries, please speak with a podiatrist. 

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Derek T. Pantiel of Summit Podiatry. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact one of our offices located in Wilmington, Whiteville, and Burgaw, NC . We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.