Running and jogging have been the go-to exercises to help you stay in shape and maintain fitness. In fact, it has been the leading sporting activity for Singaporeans since 2011. Running, without a doubt, is effective in optimising your health and sustaining your physique. However, running can be hard on the body and may cause injuries, which may need the help of a physiotherapist in Singapore.Running injury is the last thing active people want to suffer from, as these injuries can hamper and strain your mobility.
Keep reading if you want to learn the six common running injuries, their symptoms, and the available treatment options you can get.
1. PATELLOFEMORAL PAIN
Patellofemoral syndrome is one of the top reasons runners visit a physiotherapy clinic in Singapore. Patellofemoral syndrome, or runner’s knee pain, is the ache you will feel around the areas of your knee. This injury frequently happens in sports that involve jogging, knee-high jumping, and running. If you hear bone-cracking or popping sounds near your knee, it may be a sign to see a doctor. Just look up “a physiotherapy clinic near me”on your browser and immediately visit the most reliable option you find on the internet.
A physiotherapist in Singapore can suggest the following patellofemoral syndrome treatments:
- Ice application for 20 minutes, three times a day
- Stretching the toes and foot upward
- Massage foot arch
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and pain
- Decrease running
- Proper shoe size
- Shoe-appropriate devices, such as arch supports, heel cups, or customised orthotics
2. HAMSTRING INJURIES
As you run, your hamstrings support your thighs to your foot. Because of the stress and pressure running gives, your hamstrings tend to weaken and get tired, causing your upper leg prone to injuries. If you feel severe pain and a snapping feeling while running, you should visit a physical therapy clinic in Singapore as soon as possible. Besides that, you may also encounter aches and pain in the thigh, lower buttock, tenderness on the legs, and bruising. Luckily, treatment options for hamstring strain are available.
- Ice application for 20-30 minutes every four hours for three days
- Elastic bandage or compress
- Resting
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
- Stretching and strengthening exercises
3. STRESS FRACTURE
Another running injury you should watch out for is stress fracture injuries. It commonly causes pain in the top area of your foot, heel, calf, or lower leg near the ankle. If the aching remains for more than a week, it may require serious management and treatment and must need the help of a physiotherapist in Singapore. They will examine the condition, diagnose the trigger points on your foot via X-ray, and provide treatment options depending on the case. It may be through the following:
- Ice pack application for ten minutes
- Ice massage or rubbing the ice for three to five minutes
- Two to eight weeks of rest
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications to help alleviate pain and release triggers that cause swelling
- Use of protective footwear, such as a wooden-soled sandal, open-toed stiff-soled shoe, or pairs of shoes that has a rigid sole
- Use of crutches
4. SHIN SPLINTS
As the name says, shin splint injuries occur when the shin encounters extreme pressure while running. You may not feel the pain at first, but the pain will become unbearable once it progresses. The most common causes of shin splint injuries are incorrect shoe type, sudden change of pace while running, use of overused running shoes, flat feet, weak muscles, and improper running form. If the pain remains after a week, it is time to visit a physiotherapy clinic in Singapore and consult a doctor as soon as possible. Just search for a physiotherapist near me on the internet, and you will find a number of options available. To have shin splint injuries treated, here are some ways:
- A month of rest
- Ice application thrice a day
- Anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen, to lessen the soreness and swelling
- Use of appropriate running shoes, including the type and size
- Stretching calf muscles, hip abductors, and hip extensors
5. ACHILLES TENDINOPATHY
You suffer from Achilles tendonitis when the tissues and tendons connecting your calf muscles get detached from your heel. It frequently occurs when you change your pacing all of a sudden, when your foot lands on a curb, when running up the stairs, or sudden change direction. If left unresolved and untreated, it may interfere with your mobility, worsen over time, and require surgery. A physiotherapist in Singapore may recommend the following treatment options for Achilles tendonitis:
- Modification of training schedule
- Numerous therapy sessions at a physical therapy clinic in Singapore
- Ice application for 20-30 minutes
- Use of proper shoe gears, such as padded insoles, arch supports, or heel lifts
- Foot massage
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications
6. PLANTAR FASCIITIS
Plantar fasciitis is also one of the frequent reasons why runners visit a physiotherapy clinic in Singapore.This foot injury occurs when your fascia, the thick layer of tissue on your sole, receives too much trigger and pressure. Plantar fasciitis typically happens when a person has been walking, jogging, or running for a long period, causing the fascia to be weak and vulnerable. To get this treated, your doctor may suggest the following:
- Ice application for 20 minutes ONLY three times a day, for one week or until the pain is gone
- Stretching calf muscles and heel
- Foot and arch massages
- Anti-inflammatory medications to reduce swelling and tenderness
- Use of appropriate shoes, including the size, type, and cushion inside
- Use of proper shoe gears, such as customised orthotics, padded supports, and arch or heel cups
The Bottom Line
As a runner, your foot is the most valuable body part. Naturally, because you frequently use it, it is crucial to take good care of it. Consider having a family doctor or regular physiotherapist.Never worry about how much physiotherapy in Singapore may cost.If it is too pricey, always remember that health is wealth. Also, remember that the best approach to avoid injuries is by using the appropriate gears and training devices and performing these activities with a good posture and form. If you get the chance to hire a coach, get one as these experts can teach and help you with proper training and lessen the risks of injuries. Besides the gear and posture, regularly schedule visits and checkups with a physiotherapist to ensure the condition of your foot.
If you want to learn more about vestibular rehabilitation, running injuries, or any other physiotherapist services, Edge Healthcare can assist you with your concerns. Visit the website to know more!