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The Association Between Running Injuries and Training Parameters: A Systematic Review
Anny Fredette1,2,3, Jean-Sébastien Roy1,2, Kadija Perreault1,2
1Faculty of Medicine, Université Laval, Québec, Canada.
Journal of Athletic Training
|September 3, 2021
Summary
Running-related injuries (RRIs) are common, affecting over a quarter of runners. However, current evidence does not consistently link RRIs to specific training parameters or changes in training, suggesting a multifactorial cause.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Exercise Science
- Injury Epidemiology
Background:
- Running-related injuries (RRIs) represent a significant concern for runners across all levels, from novice to competitive.
- Understanding the incidence and risk factors for RRIs is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.
Approach:
- A systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized evidence from 36 studies involving 23,047 runners.
- Data were extracted and quality assessed using QualSyst, focusing on prospective data of RRIs and training parameters.
Key Points:
- The overall incidence of RRIs was 26.2%, with higher rates in competitive runners (62.6%) compared to recreational (26.1%) and novice (14.9%) runners.
- The knee, foot/ankle, and lower leg were the most frequently injured body parts.
- Evidence linking specific training parameters (distance, duration, frequency, intensity) or recent changes to RRI onset was conflicting.
Conclusions:
- Despite high RRI incidence, current evidence does not consistently associate RRIs with specific training parameters or recent training modifications.
- Caution is advised when recommending specific training parameters or progressions due to the lack of consistent evidence.
- Future research should explore the multifactorial nature of RRIs, including interactions between training parameters and other factors like psychosocial elements, hormones, lifestyle, and recovery.
