"Running is a mental sport...and we're all insane!"
- Author unknown

"I don't think jogging is healthy, especially morning jogging. If morning joggers knew how tempting they looked to morning motorists, they would stay home and do sit-ups."
- Rita Rudner

Running is a great form of exercise and a tremendous sport that develops a person both physically and mentally. It is also an activity that can be hard on the body and lead to injury unless the runner takes certain precautions.

Runners should be aware of injuries common to the sport so they might recognize them before they become chronic. It is also important to take measures to prevent sustaining such injuries in the first place. This page will provide information of several common overuse injuries and provide suggestions for treating and preventing them.

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) - ITBS is a frustrating injury that can sideline a runner. The iliotibial band provides stability to the knee and assists in flexion of the knee joint. When irritated, movement of the knee joint becomes painful. Usually the pain worsens with continued movement and resolves with rest. Find out more here.

Plantar Fasciitis - Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue on the bottom of the foot is overstretched or overused. Frequent load on the fascia can cause micro-cracks which lead to inflammation and degeneration of the connective tissue in the fascia.  This is painful and can make walking difficult. Go here for more information.

Patellar Tendonitis - Patellar tendonitis is defined by inflammation in the patellar tendon, generally below the kneecap. The most common cause is overuse or repetitive injury, and it has been reported to occur in athletes of virtually every sport.  With repetitive jumping, microscopic tearing and injury of the tendon can occur, leading to inflammation and localized pain. For more information see this page.

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