Tips on dealing with bone injuries, ways to prevent them during marathon training

ByZarafshan Shiraz, New Delhi

ByZarafshan Shiraz, New Delhi

Marathon coaching is usually a difficult expertise for runners as it may be gruelling and comes with its set of dangers, particularly to bone and comfortable tissue constructions of the decrease limbs. Bone or tissue accidents are typically resulting from repetitive trauma on account of overtraining or insufficient durations of relaxation however with New Year 2024 across the nook and a number of other marathons slated forward, we bought you sorted with some heads up on widespread accidents to look out for throughout marathon coaching, tricks to deal with these accidents, when to hunt medical consideration and preventive measures to keep away from them.

Tips on coping with bone accidents, methods to forestall them throughout marathon coaching (Photo by Miguel A Amutio on Unsplash)

Common Running Injuries:

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Sanesh Tuteja, Consultant-Arthroscopy and Sports Medicine at Fortis Hospital in Mulund, revealed the widespread operating accidents to be –

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  • PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN SYNDROME A.Ok.A RUNNER’S KNEE: This is probably the most generally encountered damage amongst marathon runners and is characterised by knee ache that arises from irritation of the cartilage below the kneecap. It is triggered by repetitive bending and straightening of the knee throughout operating. Symptoms embrace ache, clicking, and catching sensation within the knee.
  • TIBIAL STRESS SYNDROME “SHIN SPLINTS”: This is brought on by the irritation of the outermost layer of the bone (Periostitis) of the Tibia (shin bone). It presents as a boring ache over the shin, that worsens with ankle actions and weight bearing.
  • ACHILLES TENDINITIS: Occurs as a result of irritation of the Achilles tendon inflicting ache in the back of the heel.
  • STRESS FRACTURES: Tiny cracks seem within the bone resulting from repetitive stress. These cracks propagate to a fracture if the physique doesn’t get satisfactory time to heal and that is significantly widespread amongst runners. They are extra widespread within the decrease extremities, significantly within the shin bones, Metatarsals (foot), and Pelvis. Symptoms embrace ache, swelling and issue in weight bearing on the affected space.
  • PLANTAR FASCIITIS: This situation happens resulting from irritation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of soppy tissue that helps the foot’s arch. Inflammation happens resulting from overuse. Risk elements embrace excessive BMI, tight calf muscular tissues and endurance actions like operating. It presents as ache within the heel or arch of the foot which is usually observed on taking step one within the morning.
  • ILIOTIBIAL (IT) BAND SYNDROME: IT band syndrome is brought on by irritation of the Iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs from the hip to the shin. It is characterised by ache on the surface of the knee

How to Handle the Injury

Dr Sanesh Tuteja suggested –

  1. Rest: Allow ample time for the physique to heal.
  2. Ice: Apply ice to scale back irritation and ease ache. This may be performed for as much as 20-30 minutes, each 2-3 hours.
  3. Compression: Use compression bandages to scale back swelling and assist the injured space.
  4. Elevation: Elevate the affected limb above the extent of the guts, it’ll cut back swelling.

When to See a Doctor?

Dr Sanesh Tuteja beneficial that whereas minor accidents can usually be self-treated, it’s important to seek the advice of a physician for those who expertise the next –

  • Pain is extreme or persistent: Especially throughout or after relaxation
  • Swelling or bruising: Indicates potential critical damage
  • Inability to bear weight or transfer the injured space: Could point out a critical damage to the bone or ligament
  • Swelling, redness, or heat across the damage: This might be an indication of an infection within the joint that may generally happen secondary to a set of blood or fluid within the joint
  • Changes in gait or joint instability: May signify a extra vital subject
  • Pain interferes with every day actions: Hindering your capacity to stroll or carry out routine duties

Ways to Avoid Injury/Precautionary Measures:

Dr Sanesh Tuteja prompt –

  1. Gradual Progression: Increase the depth and length of the coaching over time to permit the physique to adapt and heal from the actions.
  2. Proper Footwear: Invest in sneakers that present correct satisfactory assist and cushioning. If you’ve a foot situation, examine together with your physician to determine on the suitable kind of trainers for you.
  3. Include Cross-Training: Low-impact actions like swimming assist construct endurance.
  4. Strength Training: To Build goal muscular tissues and assist you to run longer.
  5. Focus on vitamin and rehydration: Replacing fluid loss throughout coaching in addition to an satisfactory quantity of proteins to maximise positive aspects.
  6. Rest and Recovery: Allow satisfactory time for the physique to recuperate between intense exercises and coaching periods. Using cryotherapy/ ice baths to reinforce restoration may be helpful.

Dr Sanesh Tuteja concluded, “Marathon training is demanding on the body, and injuries are a common occurrence. It is important to possess the foresight to minimise the risk of injuries and enjoy success in the marathon. Remember, always listen to your body and prioritise your health and well-being throughout your training journey.”

Source: www.hindustantimes.com

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