Statistics say 80 percent of runners will sustain an injury this year.  That is a huge number – in fact it’s the market share.  According to the American Podiatric Medical Association (APMA) the top 5 injuries that will plague them are:

• Plantar fasciitis
• Achilles tendonitis
• Morton’s neuroma
• Stress fractures
• Shin splints

With all five conditions, a common thread appears in regards to both prevention and treatment.   Rest, icing, compression, and elevation can be used in most treatment scenarios. It’s common sense that an injury requires adequate time to heal in order to prevent recurring or complications to the injury. Icing can reduce inflammation and pain, and compression and elevation improves circulation and reduces swelling. These treatments that can be done at home are not going to hurt you, or make the situation worse. You doctor may also advise you to take ibuprofen for additional pain relief but before you self treat – always call your podiatrist.

Here are some basics things to consider as you head into the running season. Preventing your running injuries actually starts before you hit the road. If you expect a lot out of your feet, you need to treat them accordingly. As a runner, you should be replacing your shoes each 400-500 miles or sooner if indicated by wear and tear or by any type of pain that comes as a result of worn shoes.  This may seem excessive to some, but this is a sport where you have little to no investment other than the cost of your shoes. Be kind to your feet and make sure that your shoes fit well.  Your shoes can be the key to avoiding injuries such Plantar fasciitis and Morton’s neuroma.

In our next blogs we will cover each of the five most common running ailments in detail along with prevention and treatment suggestions.  If you experience pain and think you might suffer from an injury related to running or other sports related activities, call the Hillsboro office at (503) 648-1713, the Newberg office at (503) 538-0466 or the Beaverton office at (503) 292-9252. Our expertise is just the help you need to get back in the race.

K.G. Gauntt, DPM