If you run regularly, I’m sure you’d agree that there’s nothing quite like hitting the roads to de-stress, breathe in some fresh air and re-connect with yourself, right? Those sensations that spur us on, the heart rate rising, sweat pouring down our faces and that post-run endorphin rush all let us know that we are exercising both physical and mental health AKA experiencing the runners high.
Although the positive effects of hitting the road far outweigh the negatives, unfortunately, some of us have experienced how frustrating it is when that niggle (whilst chasing down your PB or trying desperately hard not to be overtaken by your neighbour) is now preventing you from taking part in your beloved sport.
Using our experience and knowledge of musculoskeletal health, this article sets out to help you understand the risks, common injuries and importantly what osteopathy can do to aid in the management of a musculoskeletal injury caused by running. The outcome is to keep you educated and informed so as you can continue seeking out that runners high!
Who is at risk of injury?
- Approximately two-thirds of runners sustain at least one injury causing disruption to their training schedule.
- Runners who are not fully recovered from a previous injury.
- There is a high injury occurrence once a 40mile threshold per week is crossed.
- Inexperienced runners .
- Biomechanical Variables e.g. Pes planus feet, twisted pelvis .
What are the types of Injury?
Research has demonstrated that most injuries in runners are overuse injuries to the lower extremities, specific examples of these injuries are:
- Muscle strains and tendinopathies of the lower extremities
- Patellofemoral Syndrome
- ITB Friction Syndrome
- Tibial Stress Syndrome
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles Tendonitis
- Meniscal injuries of the knee
And how can Osteopathy help?
• Osteopathic techniques can help reduce the incidence of musculoskeletal injury by restoring/maintaining musculoskeletal balance, stability, and strength
• Maintain and restore muscle flexibility affected by prolonged repetitive strain
• Osteopaths can give you a holistic view of how your body integrates its structure and function, we focus on managing areas of your body that could be responsible for maintaining your injury
• On-going advice and referral options
It’s no secret that musculoskeletal injuries are prevalent within the running community. These injuries can, however, be managed and treated with positive results by both osteopathy and physiotherapy. An important point to close on is this. Listen to your body if you feel any painful symptoms before, during or after running, get them checked out by a professional.
