Even though runners aren’t at risk of injury due to a tackle or collision like in the NFL, studies show that they are hurt nearly as often as football players competing at the professional level, leaving more than 50 percent of runners injured each year. Thankfully, there are steps you can take to avoid a running injury. Read on for tips from the sports medicine doctors at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron.

”Unfortunately, many runners don’t follow a proper training plan,” explains Todd P. Murphy, sports medicine doctor at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron. “In the same way that football players must use proper tackling techniques to avoid injury, runners must also maintain consistent running techniques to stay healthy.”

Dr. Murphy says that the majority of running injuries are caused by overuse. If a runner is repeating the same workout routine without any variation, he or she is likely to become injured due to the repetitive stress placed on the same parts of the body during each run. Adding variety to your workout in the form of trail running, altered pace, and strength training will help correct imbalances and reduce repetitive stress to your muscles, joints, and ligaments.

It’s also important to get adequate rest following a run, and be prepared to adjust your workouts according to your level of fatigue and muscle soreness. Runners are most likely to injure themselves when they’re trying to do too much, too soon and too quickly. Don’t be afraid to take a day off from your training—practicing proactive recovery methods can help you avoid injury by ensuring that you don’t try to push your body further than it is prepared to go.

For additional injury prevention tips, “like” Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron on Facebook. If you’ve suffered a running injury, call (810) 985-4900 to schedule an appointment with one of the sports medicine doctors at Orthopedic Associates of Port Huron.

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