Running Injuries in Portland Maine

Running is one of the best ways to stay in shape and release stress, but it is also one of the easiest ways to develop an injury. The constant stress and impact on feet, ankles, knees and hips can cause injury, particularly if warning signs of injury are ignored. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the risks and warnings of injuries so you know how to best prevent them. Below are a few great ways of dealing with and preventing running injuries in Portland, Maine.

– If you feel a pain, immediately take actions to prevent further injury, including the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) method. Also, allowing the injury to heal by taking a day or two off from running is ideal to avoid secondary injuries.

– Wear proper footwear. Surely it isn’t the first time you’ve heard this one, but there’s a reason for it. Shoes that throw off your stride due to the lack of support will almost always cause injury. Make sure your shoes fit properly, have adequate support and once they reach about 500 miles, replace them.

– Take care of yourself and allow time for recovery. Make sure you get enough sleep, stay hydrated and use other methods for recovery. Some of these techniques include cold or ice bath after an intense workout, add Epsom salts to your bath and give yourself a light leg massage to help pull lactic acid from your muscles. Swimming is ideal for recovery days because there is no direct impact on the muscles and joints that are constantly being worked.

– Be sure to warm up before running to give your body time to adjust, thus maximizing performance, as well as minimizing the risk for injury. It is also important to cool down after a run because it allows your body to recover by removing waste products, returning your heart rate and breathing patterns to normal, and it also reduces muscle soreness.

– Stretch Regularly. Stretching increases flexibility, reduces soreness, and prevents injuries. Elongated muscles are stronger and can help improve one’s gait. It’s best to stretch after the muscles are warmed up, so after about 15 minutes, then again after the full run.

– If you are having pain in your feet, consider having your feet scanned for structural imbalances.  The foot stabilizer (orthotic) company “Footlevelers” offers great scanning technology to identify foot imbalances.  For more info click the footlevers link or call (207) 774-6251.

By following these guidelines, you will be able to easily avoid some of the most common injuries caused by running. Stay strong and run on! If preventing running injuries in Portland, Maine has been unsuccessful, feel free to contact our doctors at (207) SPINAL 1 (774-6251)