Common Lower Extremity Injuries for Runners
John D. Goodner D.P.M. is a board-certified foot and ankle surgeon. He specializes in treating foot, ankle, and leg injuries in children, teenagers, and adults. He is trained to perform the latest minimally invasive and arthroscopic surgical techniques. Growing up locally in Broward County, he was a two-sport varsity letterman... more
Many people will try out new exercise or running routines, however, if they are not careful there are many foot and ankle injuries they may suffer. It is recommended to increase physical activity gradually, 10% increments of intensity or distance each week going forward. Doing too much too soon, too high of intensity, and too high of impact or demanding exercise can result in injury.
Why does the bottom of my heel hurt?
Plantar fasciitis is a very common overuse injury. Dramatic increase in activity over a short period of time, coupled with poor supporting footwear, can ignite an episode of sudden heel pain. Treatment includes but not limited to: offloading, stretching, orthotics, cortisone injection, platelet rich plasma, shockwave therapy, and end stage surgery if conservative care fails.
Why do my legs hurt?
Shin splints can either occur in the front outside or back inside portion of the leg. Also a very common overuse injury, shin splints tend to occur when the patient has flatfeet and tight calves. Treatment includes but not limited to: offloading, stretching, orthotics, compression sleeves, and physical therapy.
Why does the back of my heel hurt?
Achilles tendonitis is likely to occur after repetitive ankle motion type exercise and activity. Excessive jump rope, plyometrics, stair climbing, and distance running on hills can create inflammation to the achilles tendon. Treatment includes but not limited to: offloading, stretching, orthotics, heel lifts, and physical therapy.
Why does the inside of my foot hurt?
Posterior tibial tendonitis occurs mainly in the flatfooted patient, to which the main tendon that holds up the arch becomes inflamed due to the increase in workload without proper arch support. Treatment includes but not limited to: offloading, orthotics, and physical therapy.
Why does the outside of my ankle hurt?
Peroneal tendonitis occurs after distance running on uneven surfaces. These tendons serve as ankle stabilizers so cross training on several different terrains can cause inflammation. Treatment includes but not limited to: offloading, orthotics, ankle brace, and physical therapy.
