Runner’s knee, shin splints, Achilles , plantar fasciitis these are the last words any runner wants to hear. Whether running a marathon or a five-mile loop in the park, NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center physicians Dr. William Levine and Dr. Christopher Visco offer six important steps to prevent painful and debilitating injuries.
1. Don’t go beyond your fitness level. Gradual training is essential. If you aren’t ready to run 26.2 miles, don’t try a marathon. The same goes for half marathons and other distances.
2. Have a training schedule. There are many schedules available to gradually increase your mileage. Slowly and progressively increase mileage.
3. Listen to you body. If you feel sore, fatigued or have pain, you may need to rest. If the pain persists, see a medical professional. Most injuries occur when fatigued, and at the end of a run. Running with an injury may worsen it or lead to a secondary injury.
