Running and Jogging: Benefits and Injury Risks

Running and jogging offer numerous health benefits, making them excellent choices for improving cardiovascular fitness, boosting mood, and supporting overall well-being. However, because they are high-impact activities, they can also increase the risk of injuries—particularly to the feet and legs.

Request an Appointment

Common Running and Jogging Injuries

While running is great for your health, repetitive motion and impact can lead to various issues, including:

Arch Issues

  • Flat Feet: Often caused by overpronation (when the foot rolls inward excessively during stride)

Bone Injuries

  • Stress Fractures and Broken Bones: Result from repeated impact or trauma

Nerve Conditions

  • Morton’s Neuroma: Compression of nerves between the toes, causing pain and numbness

Tendon Injuries

  • Metatarsalgia: Inflammation of the toe joints
  • Plantar Fasciitis: Strain or injury to the arch-supporting tendon
  • Turf Toe: Sprain of the ligaments around the big toe

Muscle and Joint Issues

  • Shin Splints: Inflammation of tissue around the shin bone
  • Sprains: Ligament overstretching or tearing
  • Strains: Muscle overstretching or tearing

Skin Conditions

  • Athlete’s Foot: Fungal infection from sweat and moisture
  • Blisters and Bunions: Result from friction or pressure due to ill-fitting footwear

If you’re dealing with any of these conditions or suspect a running-related injury, your doctor or podiatrist can provide treatment options to help restore your mobility and reduce pain.

Causes and Symptoms of Running Injuries

Injuries can result from:

  • Impact stress: Repetitive force from running
  • Poor preparation: Not stretching before or after workouts
  • Improper footwear: Shoes without the right support or fit
  • Overtraining: Increasing distance, speed, or frequency too quickly

Symptoms to watch for include:

  • Burning, itching, or discomfort in the feet or legs
  • Reduced running performance or stamina
  • Pain, tightness, or heat in muscles or joints
  • Snapping, clicking, or crackling sounds in joints
  • Difficulty running or bearing weight on the foot

Treating Running-Related Injuries

Treatment depends on the type and severity of the injury, as well as your overall health and activity level. In general:

  • Tendon and bone injuries: Often treated by immobilizing the affected area to allow healing
  • Skin issues: Usually managed with topical treatments or protective measures
  • Nerve problems: May require more advanced care, including physical therapy or surgical options in severe cases

When to See a Doctor

If you’re experiencing persistent pain, discomfort, or reduced mobility from running or jogging, don’t ignore it. Early treatment can prevent further damage and speed up recovery. Reach out to your doctor to explore the best course of action and return safely to your routine.