According to Study Running on a Treadmill Could be Unhealthy

By using advanced cameras to measure the form and movement of different runners, British researchers found that there are significant differences between running on a treadmill and running outdoors. The study suggested that athletes flex their muscles less on a treadmill and take shorter strides.

"Both of these are likely to be a consequence of the belt moving and the fact that we don't actually move forward when running on the treadmill; rather, the belt moves underneath us," shared Johnathan Sinclair, sports technology expert at the University of Central Lancashire. The researchers deduced that the restricted movement when on a treadmill could increase the risk of injury.

Knowing how to prevent running injuries is an important skill to have as an athlete. If you are concerned about possibly hurting yourself, consider consulting a chiropodist like Marz Hardy of Academy Foot and Orthotics Clinics. Hardy can advise you on proper running technique and help you avoid poor running habits.

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.

For more information about How to Prevent Running Injuries, follow the link below.

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

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