RBC Run for the Kids: Get Ready with a Running Injury Clinic

This Saturday, Mel Lastman Square will be the start and end point for the annual RBC Run for the Kids event in support of youth mental health. Offering something for everyone, from the seasoned to the beginner, the race features a 5k, 15k, and 25k race. Last year this event raised over $1.2M, helping to fund the Family Navigation Project at Sunnybrook. The stakes are high – can this year bring in even more?

Again, whether you are a seasoned runner or someone who knows the benefits and is planning on making running a part of your regular exercise routine, there are important things to remember – not least of which being that injuries are often an unfortunate occurrence and therefore something to pay attention to.

What are we talking about? Well, some of the most common running injuries, not surprisingly, are those that effect some part of the leg: knee, calf muscles, Achilles heel, etc. Sometimes these injuries are unavoidable, thanks to things like falls, but often they can be avoided.

Runner’s Knee, or Patellofemoral pain syndrome, is a very common injury among runners. Symptoms include pain in and around the kneecap caused by the irritation of the cartilage on the underside of the kneecap, typically flaring up during or after longer runs or while descending hills. Treatment depends on the severity of the injury, but could range from exercise regimens that help to strengthen the quads, hips and glutes, to a custom knee brace to help reduce pressure and tension on the knee. Visiting a running injury clinic to have the pain diagnosed is the best place to start.

Achilles Tendinitis is another very common running injury, most often caused by too much stress placed on the tendon, thereby causing the tendons to tighten and become irritated. This injury can be very painful and so seeking treatment immediately is the best way to ensure no further damage is sustained. Treatment may include physical therapy or a focus on strengthening the calves during your regular training exercises.

It should come as no surprise that the foot is also very vulnerable when it comes to running, and therefore the fact that Plantar Fasciitis represents 15% of all running injuries shouldn’t be shocking. Plantar Fasciitis pain, caused by inflammation or small tears of the tendons and ligaments in the foot, often effects those with very high or very low arches, but other risk factors may include increasing distance too quickly or even weak core muscles. A running shoe analysis done through a running injury clinic is a great way to assess the injury and develop a plan to rehab it.

Running can be a great activity with some amazing health benefits – but it can also be painful if your posture, regular fitness routine, or even your running shoes leave something to be desired. Before (or after) you sustain an injury, visit a running injury clinic to ensure optimal results, all the time.

For more about common running injuries or to find out about visiting a running injury clinic, please contact Athletic Edge Sports Medicine today by calling 416-800-0800.