Running is a great way to stay in shape, but whether you're a distance runner or new to the sport, it's important to know how to prevent injuries.
Sports medicine podiatrist Dr. Perry Julien says some arch, shin and heel pain is normal when starting out. But new runners can prevent an injury by following the following tips.
It's important whenever you start a new activity, whether it's running or tennis or bicycling, that you start off gradually and increase your intensity, increase the duration, increase the frequency on a gradual basis. And flexibility is just as important. When your certain muscle groups are tight, you then ask other muscle groups to overwork.
Dr. Julien says number one is the calf stretch; but don't forget the hamstrings, quadriceps, and upper legs. Also, what you wear on your feet may make all the difference. Usually doctors recommend somewhere between 200 and 400 miles, or 3 to 6 months to replace your shoes. But if an injury does occur? If any injury that lasts longer than 7 days or gets worse, or re-occurs, you should probably be seen by a sports medicine specialist.
