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Common overuse running injuries: diagnosis and management
M T Ballas1, J Tytko, D Cookson
1Franciscan Sports Medicine Center, Dayton, OH 45408, USA.
American Family Physician
|May 15, 1997
Summary
Most running injuries stem from overuse due to training errors. Proper training, footwear, and exercises can prevent injuries, while rest and treatment aid recovery.
Area of Science:
- Sports Medicine
- Orthopedics
- Exercise Physiology
Background:
- Running injuries are common, often resulting from overuse and training errors like excessive mileage or intensity.
- Stress fractures are a significant concern in runners, potentially leading to long-term complications if undiagnosed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the causes, diagnosis, and management of overuse running injuries.
- To provide guidance on injury prevention strategies for runners.
Main Methods:
- Diagnosis relies on patient history and physical examination.
- Prevention strategies include gradual mileage increases (≤10% weekly), appropriate footwear, and regular lower extremity exercises.
- Treatment involves relative rest, anti-inflammatory medications, cross-training, and stretching.
Main Results:
- Overuse injuries are the primary cause of running-related problems.
- Gradual training progression and proper biomechanics are key to preventing injuries.
- Early recognition and appropriate management are crucial for a successful return to running.
Conclusions:
- Overuse injuries in runners are largely preventable through education on training errors and proper care.
- A comprehensive approach combining rest, medication, exercise, and biomechanical correction is effective for managing running injuries.