How to treat a running injury

Gravity is what causes the majority of running injuries. When we run, our entire body is propelled forward and into the air. Gravity then pulls our body back down to the ground. With each step, our muscles, tendons and stabilizers have the job of absorbing a force that is greater than our body weight.

Running injuries mainly affect the knees, legs and feet.[1]

It is important for runners to pay close attention to their body while running and even between runs. A minor pain can become more severe and require a break from running if it is not treated promptly.

According to Richard J. Price, M.D., a sports medicine physician in Colorado, the severity and duration of a running injury depends largely on what you do as soon as the pain begins. He recommends reducing the length and frequency of your runs and starting a treatment, as well as establishing an injury prevention program that you can continue even after the pain has subsided. This includes strengthening exercises, stretching and massage with a foam roller.[2]

There are a number of so-called “conservative” treatments for running injuries, including physiotherapy, rest and anti-inflammatory drugs. According to Ternest Damien, expert running therapist at Kinatex Sports Physio , shockwave therapy is the newest tool for conservative treatment in physiotherapy. This non-invasive procedure is quite simple and according to the scientific literature, has a success rate of 75-90%.[7]

When conservative treatments are not successful, patients may opt for a more invasive approach, namely infiltrations and surgery.

In patients with patellofemoral syndrome who do not respond to conservative treatments, a cortisone infiltration into the knee joint, either fluoroscopy- or ultrasound-guided, usually provides temporary relief from the pain. Cortisone acts as an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Other types of injections, such as viscosupplements or platelet-rich plasma (PRP), can often provide longer-term relief.

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For problems such as Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, which do not respond to conservative treatments, your doctor may suggest a cortisone infiltration. This treatment has a high success rate in providing temporary pain relief, but does not cure the underlying problem in the tendon or fascia. However, the procedure can significantly reduce the pain.

Among the treatments with potential to heal are tenotomy (also called tendon fenestration), which involves passing a needle multiple times through the tendon following local anesthesia. There is also the option of injecting platelet-rich plasma (PRP) into the tissue. This is a fluid extracted from blood taken from your arm. The concentrated platelets contain growth factors, among other things, and can help regenerate diseased tissue. These procedures are quick and minimally invasive, and could help you avoid surgery.[8],[9]

Yes, running injuries are common. However, simple changes to your training habits can minimize the risk of injury.[10]

Do not start running as soon as you step outside. Begin with a five- to 10-minute warm-up to awaken your muscles and cardiovascular system. You can jog at low intensity or do some dynamic stretching of your arms and legs.

Avoid increasing your time or distance drastically. Your body needs to adapt to increases in order to avoid injury. The 10% rule, popular with many runners, states that you should not increase your running by more than 10% each week.

If not treated promptly, running injuries can worsen and force you to take a long break. Speak to a physiotherapist to get the right treatment for your situation. In cases of chronic Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis that cannot be treated with physiotherapy, treatment with tenotomy or ultrasound-guided PRP injections may help you heal.

If your injury is the result of a poor running technique, it will return after treatment. To fine-tune your technique, speak to a kinesiologist or physiotherapist.

The harder the surface you run on, the greater the impact on your joints. Running on grass, a rubber track, sand or gravel is better for your body than running on asphalt.

Running carries multiple risks of injury, some minor, some more serious. It is important for runners to know how to identify the early signs of a running injury and to consult the right health care professional to treat the injury.

Working on your technique with a professional can help you reduce the risk and prevent running-related injuries. A few simple tips could make a big difference, helping you achieve your goals safely and enjoyably.

We provide services that can help your doctor diagnose disorders musculoskeletal disorders and determine the right treatment.

• Radiography without appointment
• Cortisone, viscosupplement and platelet-rich plasma (PRP) infiltrations

Do you have a medical prescription for one of these tests? Book an appointment online or contact Biron Health Group’s customer service at 1 833 590-2714.