Common injuries when running

Tendinitis, sprains, and calf muscle strains in runners can be prevented by proper warm-up and stretching.

According to MSc. Dr. Ho Van Duy An, Head of the Orthopedic Trauma Center, Tam Anh General Hospital System, when running, the legs continuously repeat the same movement, increasing the risk of injury to muscles, joints, and connective tissues. Below are some common injuries.

Patellar tendinitis occurs when the knee joint is used continuously for extended periods or is not properly warmed up before exercise, leading to inflammation of the patellar tendon and resulting in swelling and pain.

Achilles tendonitis, also known as heel tendonitis, primarily occurs due to repetitive strain on the foot. Characteristic symptoms include burning or stiff pain in the lower calf in the morning; heel pain, especially when straining the heel or standing on tiptoes. If the tendon ruptures, the patient experiences persistent pain and heel swelling.

Ankle ligament sprains often occur after collisions or falls while running. When injured, the foot either turns inward, damaging the lateral collateral ligament, or turns outward, damaging the medial collateral ligament.

Ankle ligament sprains are common when running. Photo: Freepik

Iliotibial band syndrome is common in running, especially long-distance running. The injury occurs due to overuse of the leg, causing strain and inflammation of the iliotibial band.

Tibial strain occurs when the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue become overloaded. The characteristic sign is pain along the front or inner side of the tibia (lower leg). This injury is not serious, but in some cases, if left untreated, it can progress to a fracture.

Plantar fasciitis is an injury that causes the plantar fascia to become stretched, lose elasticity, and reduce its weight-bearing capacity. This injury can become chronic, recur frequently, and negatively affect the patient's gait.

Bursitis: The bursa is a thin cushion located within the joint capsule, containing synovial fluid. Synovial fluid lubricates the musculoskeletal system and nourishes the articular cartilage. When running for extended periods, the knee joint is subjected to excessive strain and overload, easily leading to bursitis.

Meniscus tear: The meniscus stabilizes the joint and protects the bone from wear and tear. However, a sudden knee twist while running can cause a meniscus tear. In some cases, a portion of the torn or broken meniscus can become lodged in the joint, potentially leading to osteoarthritis.

A calf muscle strain is a condition that affects the muscles in the back of the leg. The strained calf muscles cause discomfort, making it difficult for the foot, ankle, and knee to function normally. Patients may have to temporarily stop physical activity and may sometimes have difficulty walking.

Doctor An (second from the left) during a surgery to treat a musculoskeletal condition. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital.

To prevent these injuries, runners should not increase their running distance by more than 10% each week. The sudden increase in physical exertion is a major cause of running injuries.

Proper warm-up and stretching before running helps muscles, heart rate, and breathing gradually adapt to the increasing intensity of activity. These are crucial steps that should not be skipped by anyone playing any sport. Runners should replace their shoes every 600 km or when they are worn out. Proper rest and nutrition support the body's recovery and regeneration process.

Dr. An advises that both amateur and professional runners are at risk of injury. Without proper care, running injuries can hinder daily activities and develop into serious complications. Those who suffer injuries should monitor their bodies for any signs of injury and seek medical attention early if they notice any abnormalities.

Phi Hong

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