A group of British researchers recently compared the effects of running on a treadmill to running outdoors by observing runners using a sophisticated camera system. They found that when the subjects were on treadmills they moved their hips and ankles more stiffly and took smaller steps.
“Both of these are likely to be a consequence of the belt moving and the fact that we don’t actually move forward when running on the treadmill; rather, the belt moves underneath us,” explained Jonathan Sinclair, a scientists at the University of Central Lancashire. Because runners flex their bodies less, the study suggested that working out on a treadmill could increase the risk of getting a foot or ankle injury.
Understanding the natural form and pronation of the human body can help athletes prevent running injuries. For advice about how to stay healthy while running, ask a podiatrist like Dr. Jeff Wachtel of Wachtel Family Foot Care. Dr. Watchel can show you what precautions to take so that you can avoid getting hurt.
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. Runner’s knee usually is treated with strengthening exercises focusing on the quad muscles and sports orthotic. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned. Physical therapy can help you learn the best exercises to heal runner’s knee.
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 you’re running needs.
– Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
For more information about How to Prevent Running Injuries, follow the link below.
If you have any questions, feel free to contact our office in Lansdale, PA. We offer the latest in diagnostic and treatment technologies for any foot and ankle complications you might have.
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