Even when a runner takes precautions, it's not uncommon for them to still suffer an injury. However, do not let this deter you from running. While pre-workout stretching won’t prevent every injury, it is still important to do it. Some exercises that can help prevent running injuries include the partial squat, calf raises, and hip bridges. To do a partial squat, stand on one leg with arms forward for balance. Squat down a little, and then switch legs. This can help prevent knee pain. Calf raises can help prevent tendonitis. To do a calf raise stand on one foot, and bring your heel off the ground while standing on the ball of your foot. Then, come back down and use the other foot. Finally hip bridges can strengthen glutes, which takes pressure off of the feet and ankles when running. To do a hip bridge, lay your upper back on an object while keeping your feet on the ground and your legs bent at a 90 degree angle. Then dip with your pelvic region, and come back up to form a parallel line with the ground using your body. Do each of these 10 times and for 2-3 sets. Remember to ask your podiatrist if running and stretching is right for you.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact the podiatrists of Associated Podiatric Physicians, PA. Our doctors will treat your foot and ankle needs.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?
- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries
- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our office located in Hamilton Township, NJ. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.