There is nothing worse for a runner than an injury, and no worse injury than your feet, ankles, knees or legs. If you are experiencing pain, or think you have been injured, please see an experienced medical professional. However, if you are looking for some helpful items to help you stay in the best shape possible, check out these common runner injuries and how you can help prevent a pain from turning into something worse:
Plantar Fasciitis is very common in runners and can cause very uncomfortable heel pain. The plantar fascia is a band of tissue which runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. If you have a stabbing pain when you first step out of the bed in the morning, you may have plantar fasciitis. Try a Powerstep Ultra Stretch Night Sock or a Strassburg Sock, both will keep your arch in a stretched position to help that painful plantar fascia band heel while you sleep. Another option for Plantar Fasciitis is the Runner's Remedy Cold Compression Arch Wrap. It's a compression sock with an integrated ice pack that specifically targets the arch, so you get cold and compression. Designed by medical professionals, the Runner's Remedy plantar fasciitis sleeve includes four reusable ice packs.
Compression socks are a wonderful invention, they can help while you are running by increasing circulation and keeping away fatigue; however, they can also reduce swelling and decrease pain in your shins, ankles and feet. If you need some help in your hamstrings or knees you may want to try compression tights.
Shin splints can be downright irritating as can calf soreness, try footless sleeves which offer more support or kinesiology tape.
If you are looking for an ice / compression combination, then check out Runner's Remedy or 110%, both brands offer compression and ice combos which are known to help tired, achy muscles by relieving swelling, reducing inflammation and offering cool, much needed relief.
I've personally pulled my Iliotibial band and it hurt so badly I could barely walk. I used a foam roller for myofascial release, to stretch my muscles and for a much needed massage. One of my new favorite foam rollers is the Trigger Point GRID STK Original Foam Roller has a three-dimensional surface which replicates the feeling of a massage hand and is made to channel nutrients directly to the tissue. It's water-resistant so very easy to clean and the handle is made for people like me who have suffered carpal tunnel and other hand/wrist pains, it has AcuGRIP so instead of hurting your hand while massaging, it actually provides relief.
There is always topical pain relief if you find yourself in need of some soothing, yet temporary, relief from pain.
Remember if you think you have seriously injured yourself, please see a doctor or physical therapist.Â