The most common injuries for marathon runners

Marathon running is a taxing challenge, particularly for first timers. It not only tests you mentally, but it can be extremely physically demanding, resulting in occasional injuries.

These injuries can be a major setback to any marathon training schedule, and after intensive training can lead to frustration or, in worst case scenarios, having to pull out of events altogether.

To help you avoid or mitigate any pain, this guide offers a look at different types of injuries to look out for and how to recover as quickly as possible.

The most common injuries experienced by marathon runners include patellofemoral syndrome (also known as Runner’s Knee), ITB Syndrome and Achilles Tendinitis. Stress fractures are major nuisance for athletes too, when bones are cracked or bruised.

Another ailment is plantar fasciitis (plantar heel pain), which is where the sole’s fibrous tissue becomes inflamed, causing pain around the foot. This can be caused in running on hard surfaces, especially on roads. Shin splints are often reported too, along with muscular strains, tears, cramps, chafing and blisters, which are all occupational hazards for long-distance runners.

Physiotherapy is therefore a vital part of marathon training, providing specialist strengthening exercises to help improve performance while reducing injuries. Core treatments include sports massages, ice, pain relief, compression, gait analysis or shockwave therapy, while plenty of rest is strongly advised in between to enable rapid healing.

For further information on how to deal with running injuries, contact Maximum Mileage Coaching today to set up a marathon plan that suits your needs.