Spring is here, and we’re finally loosening up those muscles and reaching for our running shoes again. You may be moving your workout from the gym to the streets, or just starting to work out again to get in shape for summer. No matter what you’re working for, an injury can disrupt those plans.
Explanations for common springtime running injuries may involve wearing improper footwear, increasing intensity of a workout too fast, or even having poor running form. Keep reading to learn how to avoid common springtime running injuries, so you can keep running and hit your goals.
Commons signs to look out for can vary wildly when it comes to running injuries. A running injury can start as something that seems harmless (like soreness), so take care and go slow. We don’t mean pace, but making sure to increase your workouts in small increments can help you work up to where you want to be. You may need to stop or change your running habits if you experience:
- Shortness of breath
- Issues sleeping
- Stiffness
- Discomfort while running
- Pain not running
- Limping
- Headaches
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
Common Running Injuries
It makes sense that common running injuries affect the knee, ankle, shin and foot: the parts of the body that are most involved when it comes to the sport. But, other injuries could be affecting your run, too. If you’re not feeling great, it could be one of these:
- Hamstring strains
- Soft tissue injuries, like pulled muscles or ligament sprains
- Heat injuries (including sunburn, dehydration, or stroke)
- Foot and ankle injuries, including ankle sprain, heel pain, and plantar fasciitis
- Lower leg pain, including shin splints, and stress fractures
- Knee injuries, like kneecap pain or tendonitis
- Skin injuries, like blisters or heat rash.
There are many different treatments for common spring injuries like Ibuprofen for inflammation, physical therapy for strength and flexibility, and icing for swelling, but prevention would be the best option to try for. Listen to your body when it’s telling you to slow down or stop for a rest.
Injuries can ruin your goals and your summertime fun. Give us a call today to schedule a consultation.