Have you injured yourself while running? If so, you’re not alone. According to an article published by Yale Medicine, at least 50% of regular runners injure themselves each year, with some estimates placing that percentage even higher. Below are three of the most common running injuries, along with tips on how to care for them.
Iliotibial Band Syndrome
Iliotibial band syndrome occurs when the iliotibial band—which runs along the outside of the leg from the top of the pelvic bone to the knee—tightens and rubs against the hip or knee bones, causing the band to swell and become irritated. Some runners are more prone to developing this condition, including those who have weakened hip abductors, run with their feet close together, or increase their distance or hill work too quickly. Iliotibial band syndrome can often be treated conservatively with pain medication, corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, posture training, and periodic rest. However, if those treatments fail to provide sufficient relief, surgery may become necessary.
Runner’s Knee
Also referred to as patellofemoral pain syndrome, runner’s knee causes a dull, aching pain around the kneecap. Because this condition often results from overuse, it’s especially common among runners and those who participate in jumping sports. Treatment for runner’s knee usually focuses on conservative methods—such as taking pain medication, attending physical therapy, wearing a knee brace, and periodically resting the affected knee—but in some cases it may involve surgery.
Stress Fractures
A stress fracture is a tiny crack in a bone. These fractures often result from repetitive force and overuse, making them very common among runners and those who participate in high-impact sports. Some people have an especially high risk of developing stress fractures, including those who have osteoporosis, flat feet, or high, rigid arches. Treatment for stress fractures often requires staying off the affected bone, which could involve using crutches or a brace. Surgery is sometimes necessary to ensure that the bone fully heals. It’s important to promptly seek treatment for a suspected stress fracture, since failing to properly treat these fractures and their underlying causes could cause chronic problems and increase the chances of developing more stress fractures in the future.
Expertly Treating Running Injuries in Tampa Bay
If you think you might have sustained one of the running injuries described above, it’s important to not delay seeking professional care—prompt treatment can reduce your risk of complications and help you get back to running as soon as possible. Fortunately, if you’re in Tampa, Florida, or a nearby community, you can receive the first-rate care you deserve at Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group, a division of Florida Medical Clinic. We specialize in sports medicine and have experience treating a wide array of running injuries, and once we’ve examined you and spoken with you about your condition, we’ll supply you with personalized treatment recommendations.
Contact Tampa Orthopaedic and Sports Medicine Group today to learn more about our practice and schedule a visit to our local clinic. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you might have about our approach to treating running injuries.
