PRECAUTIONS AGAINST RUNNING INJURIES
Dr. NIRU PRASAD, M.D., F.A.A.P, F.A.C.E.P
Department of Emergency Medicine
St. Joseph Mercy Hospital, Pontiac
Department of Urgent Care and Pediatrics
What are the most common injuries sustained while you are running?
1. Foot problems.
The runners develop swelling of feet due to
inflammation caused by tearing of fascia attachments
near the heel, a condition called plantar fascitis.
2. Shin splints.
These are tiny tears in connective tissue that run from
your knee to both sides of lower leg.
3. Achille's tendinitis.
The repeated motion of stretching and running may cause
partial or complete injury to Achilles's tendon leading
to pain and swelling over the back of lower leg and
heels.
4. Runner's knee.
The runners frequently develop this condition due to
repeated strain to the knee during improper running,
poor running surface and body imbalance.
5. Iliotibial band tendinitis.
This syndrome develops due to swelling of large
connective tissue connecting the outside of hip down to
outer edge of knee.
What are the precautions against running injuries?
1. Dress appropriately. Shoes should be comfortable and
fit properly. The overall clothing should be light,
loose and layered.
2. Stretching to loosen up muscles before running is
very important for preventing further injuries.
3. Be aware of weather changes and if children find
themselves out on track during lightning storm, they
should seek shelter immediately.
4. Pay attention to proper diet. Good nutrition is
essential when participating in any sports activity.
The meals should be well balanced and youngsters
should drink adequate amounts of fluids such as
water, fruit juices, clear soups or Gatorade.
5. Since the body loses salt during perspiration, it is
very important to take salt supplemented drinks such
as Gatorade or soups.
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