 

Injuries
Running
creates stress and is thus destructive. Our bodies respond to the stress by
strengthening themselves. However, this strengthening does not occur during the
running; it occurs during rest after the running. Thus, to prevent
injuries, we must have sufficient rest that our bodies can strengthen themselves
and eliminate the stress. If we don't have sufficient rest, residues of stress
remain and accumulate, and eventually this stress will cause injuries. Many running
injuries can be avoided if we have sufficient rest, if we keep our training
within the capabilities of our bodies to handle stress, and if we stretch to
strengthen our muscles. For suggestions on preventing injuries, see my page
Preventing Injury.
In this
section, I am
giving descriptions of common running injuries; the descriptions are
paraphrases from The Runners Repair Manual, by Dr. Murray F.
Weisenfeld, and from various web sites. Because that book is copyrighted and is
still being sold, I will not give the stretch exercises and treatment that Weisenfeld recommends for the injuries.
The
book can be purchased for less than $11 at Amazon.
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The RICE procedure can
be used for several days after an injury to reduce swelling, to
control pain, and to promote healing.
 | R - Rest |
 | I - Ice |
 | C - Compression |
 | E - Elevation |
Rest to allow your body to begin the healing process.
Stop all activities that cause pain.
Ice for 15 or 20 minutes at a time during the first 24 -
48 hours after the injury; keep a cloth between the ice and your
skin.
Compress the injured muscles with an elastic bandage.
Elevate the injury
area to increase blood circulation. Raise the injured part above the heart.
If you're like me and
aren't familiar with anatomical terms, refer to Arnold's Glossary of
Anatomy.
More to be added...
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The
information in this site and in my podcasts is for
informational purposes only; it does not constitute medical or physical therapy
advice. For medical advice, consult a physician. For physical therapy advice,
consult a physical therapist.
� Copyright Allen W. Leigh 2003, 2007
All Rights Reserved
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