Injury Prevention for Runners

A marketing graduate of Lehigh University, Jennifer Heiner formerly served as the marketing director of a running company in New Jersey. When she is not collaborating with the company founders on upcoming projects, Jennifer Heiner is an active runner herself. 

Competitive runners and those who regularly run as a form of exercise may experience a range of injuries to their lower extremities, including injuries impacting the Achilles tendons. A common Achilles tendon condition known as Achilles tendinitis is frequently observed in runners who have recently made a drastic change to the length or nature of their workout regimens, as well as those who only work out on the weekends. An overuse injury, Achilles tendinitis is typically treated with rest and simple at-home treatments. However, more severe cases may require the support of medical professionals, with orthotic devices and even surgery being potential forms of treatment to remedy tendinitis before the condition worsens. If the pain and discomfort associated with Achilles tendinitis does not abate, there is a chance the injury may be more severe, such as a partial or complete Achilles tear (also known as a rupture). 

While symptoms of an Achilles rupture sometimes include severe pain, runners are just as likely to experience little to no symptoms whatsoever. With this in mind, any runner who hears a pop near their heel should speak with a medical professional, particularly in the event of difficulty walking or mild pain and discomfort after the pop. Despite the sometimes mild symptoms, Achilles tears are most often treated with surgery, especially in younger patients. Nonsurgical alternatives range from the use of crutches and walking boots to icing the injury and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen. 

Alternative treatments avoid the risks of surgery, such as infection, but carry a greater risk of runners suffering a second rupture.

There are so many other injury risks for runners - including knees, hips, feet, etc. Its very important for runners to engage in a strength training program, and to also consult with a physical therapist to figure out weaknesses in the body and how to target those to become a stronger, more balanced runner. Getting a running analysis or gait analysis is also important to see subtle differences in your body as you run, and can lead to not only injury prevention, but increased performance as well.