Running is one of the most egalitarian sports there is. Anyone with a pair of shoes can get outside and go for a run, making it a very accessible form of physical activity. Despite this, beginning runners often make mistakes that lead to costly and painful injuries. Follow these tips as you begin your running career to avoid injury and get fit. (more…)
Running is one of the most egalitarian sports there is. Anyone with a pair of shoes can get outside and go for a run, making it a very accessible form of physical activity. Despite this, beginning runners often make mistakes that lead to costly and painful injuries. Follow these tips as you begin your running career to avoid injury and get fit.
1. Invest in high quality running shoes.
Getting the appropriate running shoes for you is the best way to prevent an injury when running. Start by visiting a running store, where staff members are trained to help you find shoes that fit. Ask if the store performs gait analysis, which can help you find the best shoe for your foot type. A good pair of running shoes might cost $80 to $100, but it is better than a $30 shoe that causes you to develop an injury.
2. Begin slowly.
If you’re just starting out, keep your expectations reasonable. A good way to start is one block at a time. Jog a block, walk a block and repeat for up to a mile. This will build your endurance without overtaxing your body.
3. Pay attention to your gait.
For proper form, maintain a quick and short stride. Keep the head high and hands relaxed. Focus on pushing up and off the ground with each step.
4. Make a training plan.
Even if you aren’t training for anything in particular, it is smart to develop a running plan. A good plan will start slow and increase your endurance over the course of several months. Being flexible in your plan is important to prevent injury.
5. Be attentive to pain or discomfort.
Muscle fatigue or soreness after a run is normal but pay attention to sharp or throbbing pains that do not go away. If your pain persists, visit our sports medicine experts to get an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan.
6. Stay motivated.
Joining a running group is a great way to stay motivated and learn more about running. Alternatively, ask a friend to join you on your runs. Making running a social activity is a great way to stay motivated.
Running can be a safe and effective form of exercise, but it is also a common cause of overuse injury. If you notice an ache or pain that just doesn’t go away, contact our orthopedic specialists immediately. Ignoring a running injury can cause it to get worse over time, leading to more serious problems in the future.
Can You Do Anything to Help Prevent ACL Tears?
More than 200,000 people experience a torn ACL each year, according to the University of California San Francisco Medical Center’s Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Not only are ACL tears painful, but they also must be repaired properly to prevent future problems. Learning how to prevent ACL tears can help you stay active and avoid costly injury. (more…)
Orthotics: Helpful or Useless?
Orthotic inserts represented a $400 million industry in the United States in 2014. Some athletes purchase specialized orthotics for specific sports activities while other people wear orthotics in their shoes on a daily basis. The purpose of orthotics is to correct your bone and joint alignment, preventing injury. However, recent research has led to controversy about whether orthotics actually work. (more…)
Treatments for Hip Arthritis
Millions of Americans, many of whom are older adults, develop arthritis at some point in their life. In fact, hip arthritis affects 1 in 4 people over age 85, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Not only is hip arthritis painful, but it also affects your ability to perform everyday activities. Many patients automatically think that they need a hip replacement when they develop osteoarthritis. Although hip surgery is an appropriate and safe treatment for many people, there are other treatment options that should be explored before you make a treatment decision. (more…)
5 Ways Fitness Trackers Can Help You Reach Your Goals
The tech wearables industry is booming, with the global market expected to exceed $19 billion by 2018. Fitness trackers have gained enormous popularity among large swathes of the population for their ease of use and ability to track numerous activities. (more…)
5 Common Reasons Why Your Shoulder Is in Pain
The shoulder has a very versatile range of motion. Although this makes it an effective and well-used joint, it also means that many things can go wrong within the shoulder joint. If you are experiencing shoulder pain for more than a few consecutive days, visit an orthopedic surgeon for assessment and diagnosis. Jacksonville orthopedics experts report that these are the top five common reasons that your shoulder is in pain: (more…)
Why Physical Therapy Is so Important After Surgery
Millions of people are referred to physical therapy each year for the treatment of a range of orthopedic issues. Physical therapists are experts in improving range of motion, everyday functioning and overall quality of life. However, many patients are unsure what physical therapy can do for them or why it is important to attend physical therapy sessions. (more…)
How Beneficial Are Fitness Trackers?
Exercise technology is a booming business, with wearable fitness technology estimated to grow to a $19 billion industry by 2018. Many exercise enthusiasts swear by their fitness trackers while others are simply overwhelmed by the dozens of options. Using a fitness tracker can help you remain informed about your physical activity level and stay motivated following an orthopedic injury. Ask your Southeast Orthopedic Specialists about the possible benefits of fitness trackers for your health. (more…)
Best Type of Running Shoe for Your Feet
Running leads to significant cardiovascular benefits, reducing your risk of chronic disease and even increasing your overall lifespan. One of the best aspects of running is that nearly anyone can do it. All that is needed is a good pair of running shoes. Choosing the right running shoes can make the difference between a pastime that is fun and healthy and one that is painful or even dangerous. Investing in appropriate running shoes now may prevent a visit to an orthopedic surgeon later on. (more…)
What Is Orthopedic Trauma?
Orthopedic medicine refers to treatment of the musculoskeletal system, meaning any condition affecting the bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons and associated structures. Within the field of orthopedic medicine, some physicians choose to specialize in orthopedic trauma. Orthopedic trauma experts are equipped to handle a range of injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system. (more…)
