Running season is still in full swing! From ultra-marathons to 5Ks, running is great exercise for the body and the mind. It is especially beneficial to our cardiovascular system! According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), adults 18 to 64 should get at least 150 minutes (2.5 hours) of moderate aerobic activity a week. This means at least a brisk walking pace.
With exercise comes the risk of injury. We have all experienced aches and pains associated with exercise. The pain we’re referring to is that which prohibits or alters your ability to exercise properly. Now it would seem logical to think that wherever our pain is, that is where the problem is. Sometimes that is the case, but with runners it often times comes down to two important issues: joint dysfunction in the kinetic chain of the lower body and improper arch support in footwear.
Joint Dysfunction
Joint dysfunction can lead to pain. Imagine your body like a chain, your joints are links in that chain. If there is a weak link in the chain, the whole chain isn’t as strong as it should be. As a result, your body isn’t able to function properly which can cause pain and be detrimental to your overall health.
Proper Footwear
Proper footwear is also essential for the body to be able to handle the constant impact of running. If your shoes are worn out, or you don’t have proper support, over time, your body will start to feel that. Often times this can result in pain in other various parts of your body.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care looks for those dysfunctions and brings solutions to your pain. An assessment of your kinetic chain will determine what needs to be done. Adjustments and other therapies such as low level laser therapy and soft tissue mobilization (manual therapy and rapid release) are tools to utilize in the recovery process, along with custom orthotics. All these can really make a difference!
For at home care of acute pain, remember the acronym P.R.I.C.E. (Protect, Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate).
Remember, pain and dysfunction aren’t normal! If your pain doesn’t subsides, be sure to call us at (616) 392 – 9500
to schedule an appointment!