The Most Common Running Injuries
With all gyms closed, running has become one of the most popular ways to improve and maintain physical fitness, as well as to stay in shape. Never before have so many people in Greece taken to running on the streets and in other public spaces. Although running is an excellent way to stay active, most runners will experience an injury at some point. Orthopaedic Surgeon Andreas Leonidou outlines the most common running injuries and explains how they can be avoided.
Runner’s Knee or Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
1. Runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a general term referring to pain in the kneecap or around the knee. It is a common overuse injury. Typically, there is pain when going up and down stairs, during deep squatting and kneeling. The syndrome can be diagnosed through a clinical examination by a specialised orthopaedic surgeon, and in some cases, an X-ray may be recommended to rule out other conditions. Ice therapy, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and knee-strengthening exercises are recommended.
2. Iliotibial Band Syndrome
The iliotibial band starts at the hip and extends to the knee. It is located on the outer surface of the thigh. Iliotibial band syndrome presents with pain on the outer surface of the knee and occurs more frequently in runners who do not stretch properly before running, who do not rest sufficiently and who wear worn-out footwear. Treatment is primarily conservative and includes rest, ice therapy, stretching, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and, in cases of persistent symptoms, injection therapy with biological agents (PRP).
3. Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis refers to inflammation of the tendon at the back of the leg, behind and above the heel. It can occur when running distance and training intensity are increased. Symptoms may include difficulty with movement and loss of strength in the affected area, severe pain, as well as tenderness, redness, warmth and swelling in the area, which are indicative of inflammation. If left untreated, Achilles tendinitis can lead to tendon rupture and/or chronic pain. Treatment is initially conservative and includes physiotherapy with stretching exercises, immobilisation splints worn at night, ice therapy and orthotic insoles. In cases where the pain persists, further treatment with injectable biological agents (PRP) may be required.
4. Tibial Periostitis
Tibial periostitis refers to pain that occurs at the front of the lower leg, commonly known as the “shin”. It occurs when running intensity is suddenly increased, when running on hard surfaces and when wearing unsuitable footwear. Diagnosis is made through a clinical examination by the doctor, but sometimes an X-ray or MRI scan may be required to rule out other conditions, such as a tibial stress fracture. Treatment includes rest, ice therapy, stretching of the muscles in the affected area and anti-inflammatory medication.
5. Hamstring Strain
A hamstring muscle strain is a fairly common injury that mainly affects athletes who participate in speed and power sports, such as sprinting. When the hamstring muscles are tight, inflexible, weak and fatigued, they are more prone to injury. Treatment includes rest, ice therapy and stretching of the muscles in the affected area.
6. Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common causes of pain in the heel area. The plantar fascia is designed to absorb shock; therefore, increasing running intensity too quickly, incorrect running technique and inappropriate footwear can lead to the condition. Treatment is a time-consuming process and requires patience and persistence. It includes rest, ice therapy, orthotic insoles and stretching. In cases where the pain persists, further treatment with injectable biological agents (PRP) may be required.
7. Ankle Sprain
An ankle sprain occurs when you land on the outside of your foot and your ankle “rolls”. The main symptoms of a sprain are pain and swelling in the area. Examination by an orthopaedic surgeon is essential to determine the severity of the injury and to rule out a fracture. Treatment includes ice therapy, elevation of the leg, rest and support with an appropriate brace or elastic bandage.
Most runners experience an injury at some point, and injuries can happen to anyone, but you can minimise the risk with proper prevention. If you experience any type of pain or discomfort while running, contact Orthopaedic Surgeon Andreas Leonidou for an accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment.
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