Avoiding Overuse Injuries

Running can seem very difficult—and it is, at first. The good news is that your body can slowly adapt as you run more and more. Then, running becomes easier. However, if you try to run too far or too fast too soon, an injury can result. Problems like stress fractures, tendonitis and shin splints can occur if you don’t gradually increase your endurance over time. Proper shoes and stretching (discussed in previous training tips) can really help to prevent injuries, as well. You should stick to a proper training schedule, but most importantly, if you start to have leg or joint aches and pains, let a health care professional know, and back-off your training schedule until you feel better. A small problem can get very big if you don’t take care of it properly!

Matthew J. Kelly, M.D.
Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania
(717) 761-5530