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Contents
  • The Most Common Injuries
  • Intrinsic Risk Factors
  • Extrinsic Risk Factors

Why Do Runners Get Injured So Often? Discover the Risk Factors

Why Do Runners Get Injured So Often? Discover the Risk Factors

What's This About?

Running is a great way to stay fit, but why do so many runners end up injured? This article explores the various risk factors that contribute to running injuries.
Contents
  • The Most Common Injuries
  • Intrinsic Risk Factors
  • Extrinsic Risk Factors

The Most Common Injuries

Running injuries are often due to overuse, affecting areas like the knee, feet, and lower legs. Patellofemoral pain, shin splints, and Achilles tendinopathy are among the most frequent issues runners face. Understanding these common injuries can help runners take steps to prevent them.

Intrinsic Risk Factors

Some risk factors come from within, like your body's anatomy or past injuries. For example, if you've had a previous injury, you're more likely to get hurt again. Factors like leg length discrepancies or a high foot arch can also increase injury risk.
This schema outlines the various risk factors associated with running injuries, including intrinsic factors like anatomy and past injuries.

Extrinsic Risk Factors

Outside factors like your training routine and the surfaces you run on can also play a big role. Running too many miles or suddenly increasing your training intensity can lead to injuries. Choosing the right shoes and running on softer surfaces can help reduce risks.

FAQs

Why are runners prone to injuries?

Most running injuries are due to overuse and improper training techniques.

What body parts are most affected?

Knees, feet, and lower legs are commonly injured in runners.

Do previous injuries matter?

Yes, a history of injuries increases the risk of future injuries.

Wrapping Up

Understanding the risk factors for running injuries can help you run safer and smarter.
Want to learn more about preventing running injuries? Talk to Doctronic today!
Additional References
  1. Messier SP, Legault C, Schoenlank CR, et al. Risk factors and mechanisms of knee injury in runners. Med Sci Sports Exerc 2008; 40:1873.
  2. Fields KB, Sykes JC, Walker KM, Jackson JC. Prevention of running injuries. Curr Sports Med Rep 2010; 9:176.
This article has been reviewed for accuracy by one of the licensed medical doctors working for Doctronic.