Warmer weather is on the way
It may not seem like it that past few days, but the long, cold winter is almost over, which means that people will want to get outdoors and get some exercise by running, cycling, or hiking. Unfortunately, with the increased activity, comes the flare ups of old injuries. Many outdoor enthusiasts also will develop new injuries, caused by the repetitive pounding that comes from these high impact activities. Outdoor sports such as tennis, running, hiking and cycling can place disproportionate stress on the feet, ankles, knees, and hips. We are not saying that there are no benefits to running. Running is an excellent pursuit for setting goals and increasing your stamina. Beyond the obvious physical benefits, running can be an exhilarating away to relieve stress.
Early season injuries
Running injuries are most common early in the season because runners are out of shape, and every step, translates into shocking force to a runner’s lower extremities. In addition to striking the ground with great force, each foot comes into contact with the ground 80 to 100 times per minute. Some of the most common running injuries are:
- plantar fasciitis
- runner’s knee
- shin splints
- stress fractures of the foot
Not only are these injuries common, they are usually preventable. We want to offer you some great advice that will help you to avoid injury and to enjoy your running routine:
- Start slowly – Many runners start the season out by doing too much, too fast. Running injuries usually occur when runners attempt to run too many miles or at too fast a speed. It is important to set progressive and attainable goals, especially in the beginning. Be mindful of the importance of rest days, in order to help your body recover. Warm up and cool down every time you run. Stretching is critical to warm muscles, and to increase flexibility and range of motion.
- Wear the proper shoes – Wear running shoes that are designed to work for your body’s unique mechanics. Every runner has their own distinctive stride. Therefore, choosing the right pair of running shoes for your particular stride will help you to absorb the shock and stress of running. It would be best to purchase your shoes from a specialty store where the associates can evaluate your stride to help you choose the most appropriate shoes.
- Visit a Charlotte NC chiropractor regularly – Your body is best able to handle the shock of running when it is properly aligned. Poor posture can cause misalignment of the spine. Other physiological disorders such as flat feet, or shin splints can cause an imbalance of stress in the body. In either case, the physical strain of running can eventually lead to pain and injury. The best chiropractic doctors in Charlotte can evaluate your posture and periodically address misalignment. He or she can teach you exercises designed to prevent injury. When you visit a Charlotte NC chiropractor, the initial focus will be on relieving the pain and then preventing further injury. Regular visits and periodic alignments will also help to prevent new or recurring injuries, and will help to ensure that you enjoy your running program.
The top Charlotte NC Chiropractor for running injuries
If you are in search of natural, drug free treatment for running injuries, it is advisable that you see your Charlotte NC chiropractor so that he or she can check for any injuries or disease process that may hinder your running and walking activities. Patients visit from all over North Carolina, South Carolina, and from as far as Georgia, Florida and Virginia. Their staff and doctors will work hard to provide the best possible information and treatments to help you get back to a normal and pain free lifestyle. If you are injured and you want the quality chiropractic care that patients have received for so many years; call their office and schedule an appointment today. ChiroCarolina™ is one of Charlotte’s top chiropractic centers; providing top chiropractic care for the uptown, NoDa, and University area- located conveniently off North Tryon Street.
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