Running is an easy, inexpensive way to get in shape, relieve stress, and explore your surroundings. But if you’re not careful, it may also lead to painful injuries that can sideline you for weeks or even months.
At Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center, we’re committed to helping our patients recover quickly from sports injuries and prevent future occurrences. Our team of skilled foot and ankle specialists offer advanced diagnostic technology and effective, personalized treatment plans for patients in Phoenix and Maricopa, Arizona.
Each year, over 50% of runners are hurt doing what they love, from sprains and strains to serious fractures. Learn how to avoid these common injuries as you up your mileage and crush your fitness goals.
Experiencing heel pain? It may be plantar fasciitis, a condition that arises due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, the band of connective tissue that connects your heel bone to your toes.
People with this condition often experience the worst pain when they first get out of bed or after periods of inactivity. You may notice a sharp, sudden pain when using the affected foot or a persistent ache that tends to ease with movement and intensifies at rest.
To minimize your risk of plantar fasciitis, remember to:
Investing in supportive footwear is essential. Choose athletic shoes that offer adequate arch support, cushioning, and stability to minimize stress on your feet, and replace them every six to nine months — or after accumulating 250-500 miles of wear.
The Achilles tendon is the body’s thickest tendon, connecting your calf muscle to your heel. But it’s still vulnerable to overuse injuries, especially among runners.
If you’re dealing with Achilles tendonitis, you may notice a range of symptoms, such as:
While mild cases of tendonitis typically improve on their own with rest and time, more severe injuries may require the expertise of our team. Without proper care, the tendon can begin to break down, separate from the heel bone, or tear completely.
You can prevent this common injury by stretching regularly, investing in supportive footwear, and incorporating a variety of exercises into your routine to avoid repetitive strain on the Achilles tendon. Running uphill or on uneven ground can increase your risk of developing tendonitis.
Ankle sprains occur when you overstretch or tear ligaments, the tough bands of tissue that connect and support your ankle bones. This can happen easily when the foot twists or rolls in an unexpected way while running on rough terrain or landing awkwardly after a fall.
Mild to moderate sprains involve painfully stretched or partially torn ligaments, causing discomfort, swelling, and limited ankle mobility. A severe sprain refers to a complete tear, which can make walking difficult and requires prompt medical care.
To reduce the likelihood of an ankle sprain while running, keep these tips in mind:
Building and maintaining strong muscles, particularly in your lower legs and core, can minimize the risk of ankle sprains and other common sports injuries.
Don’t let nagging foot and ankle pain derail your training goals. Our team can get you back up and running, stronger than ever. Contact Ahwatukee Foot & Ankle Center today to book an appointment.
