A Case-Control Study of Running Injuries: Comparison of Patterns-of Runners With and Without Running Injuries

It has been reported that 70% of runners suffer from injuries at some time during their running career, and that the majority of these injuries tend to be recurrent. With over 40 million people in the U.S. currently running, an understanding of epidemiological factors relating to running injuries may prove useful for early recognition and prevention of potential problems. This study surveyed 250 runners to determine the prevalence and patterns of running injuries; 62% of the sample reported having pain of injuries related to running. Runners were divided into two groups based on whether they reported pain or injuries related to running in the last 2 years (cases), or were totally asymptomatic (controls). The two groups were compared for years run, miles run per week, stretching time, involvement in other sports, involvement in strength training, and type of running shoes worn. The cases ran slightly more miles, spent less time doing supplemental strengthening, and were less involved in other sports. The cases spent more time stretching, but had a higher proportion of "nonstretchers." There was also a higher proportion of females among the cases. The main limitation of the study was the sample size. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1986;8(2):81-84.