One common injury often experienced when running is turf toe, also known as “an acute, traumatic bursitis of the first toe-metatarsal joint associated with tendonitis,” attributed to playing on artificial turf. Typically during normal running an athlete would be able to dig his or her big toe into the ground to propel forward. But on artificial turf, the big toe is displaced during the digging motion. This imbalance results from an abnormal pronation, or inward rolling, of the foot. Understanding the risk of injury that results from playing on artificial turf is important for prevention. Orthotics that aid in balancing the feet can also decrease the risk of injury.

Exercising your feet regularly with the proper foot wear is a great way to prevent injuries. If you have any concerns about your feet, contact Dr. Adam Auster of Florida. Our doctor will treat your foot and ankle needs.

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. To prevent runner’s knee, focusing on hip strengthening is a good idea, as well as strengthening your quads to keep the kneecaps aligned.

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.
- Stretching keeps muscles limber; this will help you gain better flexibility.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact our offices located in Miami Shores and South Miami, FL. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot and ankle needs.