Running Injury Treatment
Running places repeated forces through the feet and ankles. When training load increases too quickly, footwear isn't working well, or a small problem is repeatedly stressed, pain can eventually interfere with your run.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we evaluate running-related foot and ankle injuries with the goal of identifying the problem, treating it appropriately, and helping you return to activity safely.
Common Running Injuries
Runners may experience acute injuries or problems that develop gradually from repetitive stress.
Common concerns include:
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Heel pain and plantar fasciitis
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Achilles tendon pain
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Shin splints
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Stress fractures
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Ankle sprains
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Forefoot pain
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Sesamoid injuries
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Tendonitis
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Arch pain
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Toenail problems
Pain is often the body's signal that a structure is receiving more stress than it can currently tolerate.
Why Do Running Injuries Happen?
There usually isn't one universal cause.
Training volume, running intensity, terrain, recovery, previous injuries, foot mechanics, strength, mobility, and footwear can all play a role.
A sudden increase in mileage or speed may overload tissues that haven't had enough time to adapt. Continuing to run through worsening pain can sometimes turn a manageable problem into a more significant injury.
Evaluating a Running Injury
Your provider can examine the painful area and discuss when symptoms started, your training routine, recent changes in mileage or intensity, footwear, and previous injuries.
Imaging may be recommended when a stress fracture or other structural injury is suspected.
Understanding the diagnosis is important before deciding whether you should continue running, modify your training, or temporarily stop.
Treatment & Returning to Running
Treatment varies widely according to the injury.
Options may include temporary training changes, footwear recommendations, stretching or strengthening, physical therapy, orthotics, bracing, or other condition-specific treatments.
A gradual return to running may be recommended after certain injuries to allow the body to adapt safely.
When Should a Runner Seek Care?
Consider an evaluation when pain changes your running form, persists after rest, worsens from run to run, causes swelling, or begins affecting everyday walking.
Get Back to the Miles You Love
The goal isn't simply to get you through your next run. It's to understand what's causing the problem and help you return appropriately.
At Brazos Foot & Ankle, we help runners address foot and ankle pain at its source.
Schedule an appointment today for evaluation of your running injury.
