Running Works for Kids and Adults Alike

The benefits of running are pretty obvious, and many adults use this technique to get in shape. However, running can also be a great activity for kids, especially those who aren’t who aren’t very interested in playing organized sports.

Children’s bones are still growing, so they may be susceptible to running injuries, but with careful supervision and practice these risks should diminish quickly. Running doesn’t require much preparation besides a good pair of footwear, and it can even be a bonding experience if kids do it with friends or family. 

Running injuries come in a variety of forms, but most can be avoided with the right amount of caution. If you have incurred a running injury, consult with chiropodist Marz Hardy of Dr. Hardy's Academy Foot and Orthotic Clinics. Marz Hardy will examine your feet and provide you with a proper diagnosis.

How to Prevent Running Injuries

Many common running injuries are caused by overuse and overtraining. When the back of the kneecap starts wearing out and starts causing pain in your knee, this is commonly referred to as runner’s knee. Runner’s knee is a decrease in strength in your quadriceps and can occur if you’re not wearing properly fitted or supporting shoes. Runner’s knee usually is treated with strengthening exercises focusing on the quad muscles and sports orthotic. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned. Physical therapy can help you learn the best exercises to heal runner’s knee.

What Are Some Causes of Running Injuries?

- One cause of a common running injury is called iliotibial band syndrome.
- Plantar fasciitis is also another common injury.
- Stress fractures can occur from overtraining, lack of calcium, or even your running style.

Best Ways to Prevent Running Injuries

- Wear footwear that fits properly and suits your running needs.
- Running shoes are the only protective gear that runners have to safeguard them from injury.
- Make a training schedule. Adding strengthening exercises as well as regular stretching can help keep you strong and limber and can lessen the possibility of injuries.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact one of our offices in Toronto, ON. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.

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