Many athlete’s incorporate cross-training into their fitness routines in order to avoid injury. Cross training allows for athletes to challenge other muscle groups and avoid injuries due to overuse. There are also specific workouts that athletes can do in order to strengthen weak muscles and prevent running injuries. Plyometric jump squats can be done to improve the muscles in your quads, core, hamstrings, and calves. Plyometric jump lunges are also beneficial for runners because they help strengthen the glutes. Lastly, planking is good for muscles because it strengthens just about every part of your midsection.
Runners can still be prone to running injuries even with proper precautions. If you are suffering from a running injury, contact one of our podiatrists of Active Foot and Ankle Care, LLC. Our doctors can provide the care you need to keep your pain free and on your feet.
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 our offices located in New Jersey. We offer the newest diagnostic tools and technologies to treat your foot and ankle needs.
