Prevent Running Injuries
There are a lot of benefits to running. Setting goals and increasing your running ability feels great; however, it can also be disappointing if you get injured. Unfortunately, running injuries are not rare, which is not that surprising when you consider that each step causes a runner to absorb a force of three to four times his or her own body weight! The most common running injuries are plantar fasciitis, runner’s knee, shin splints, and IT band syndrome. While many of these injuries are common, they can be preventable. To prevent running injuries and to remain healthy in your running routine try some or all of the following:
Avoid adding too much – too fast. Most running injuries occur because runners attempt to do too much too quickly, whether it is an increase in speed or mileage. Set attainable goals and include rest days to help the body recover.
Stretch regularly after runs to increase your flexibility and range of motion. Stretching can also help reduce some muscle soreness.
Choose a pair of running shoes that are designed to work with your body’s mechanics. Everyone has different variables that can affect stride, such as over- or under-pronation; choosing the right pair of running shoes for your particular stride will help you feel better and help your body better balance and absorb the stress from running. Try visit a specialty running store where the associates can evaluate the wear on a current pair of running shoes and observe your stride on a treadmill to help you choose the most appropriate running shoes for your stride.
Visit a chiropractor regularly. While our bodies can handle the shock of running when perfectly aligned, most of us do not experience good alignment due to the sedentary nature of our jobs, poor posture and other physical stressors. In addition, other physiological conditions, such as flat feet, can cause an imbalance of stress in the body. With misalignment, over time, the shock of running can lead to more pain and more injuries. As a chiropractor, Dr. Steven Becker can evaluate your posture and address any misalignments that can lead to an injury. He also teaches techniques and exercises to prevent running injuries.
Try massage to help improve recovery and boost running performance. Massage loosens tight muscles and helps maintain flexibility, which is important in preventing running injury.
Running & Chiropractic Care
Are you already feeling pain or that something is “off†when you run? Chiropractic care can also help with the therapy for common running injuries. Dr. Steven Becker can evaluate any misalignments that are contributing to the underlying conditions. Initially, his focus will be on relieving the pain and preventing further injury. Next, Dr. Steven Becker can concentrate on correcting any other issues, which may include prescribing exercises and therapies to build the affected areas of the body. Finally, regular visits and necessary alignments will help prevent new injuries and keep you on track with your goals. Most running injuries are preventable so include regular chiropractic care into your running routine to help ensure a strong running career.
West LA Chiropractor
To learn more, contact our office at (310) 277-8822 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Steven Becker. We are located on the corner of Beverly Drive and Pico Blvd. Dr. Steven Becker is affiliated with Cedars–Sinai Medical Center and has sub–specialties in Chiropractic Neurology and Orthopedics. Dr. Steven Becker lives and works in Los Angeles and frequently sees patients from the surrounding neighborhoods in West Los Angeles (West LA) including Century City, Beverly Hills and Culver City. He specializes in treating lower back pain, neck pain, headaches, sciatica, neuropathy, coccydynia and spinal stenosis. Please feel free to call with any questions or comments.
