Feeling Aches & Pains? Is it Still Okay to Run?

June 10, 2014

Advice from Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists of Green Bay

With the Bellin Run just days away and training schedules pretty much at an end, many runners may be feeling some aches and pains.

“I think it is fairly common when you’re training for a large event to have occasional aches and pains. What is concerning are aches and pains that won’t go away,” warns Dr. Tom Sullivan of Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialists of Green Bay.

He suggests that runners watch out for:

Shin Splints. Shin splints are the irritation of the muscle and muscle attachments in the shin. On occasion, they can escalate to stress fractures.
Red Flag: If you have trouble walking or hopping, it is not safe to run. “Can’t hop, don’t run.”

Plantar Fasciitis. Plantar fasciitis is heel pain or pain in the heel pad and instep of the foot. This is commonly felt when waking up in the morning.
Red Flag: If the pain persists throughout the day or continues while you’re running, you will want to consult a physician.

Muscle Strain. Muscle strain is pain in the muscles such as the hamstrings or quads and is very common in runners.
Red Flag: Muscle pain should be evaluated if it is accompanied with swelling and bruising. 

A rule of thumb for runners to remember is if they have pain with normal daily activities, they should consult a physician and get their injury evaluated. This will help prevent a small injury from escalating. 

The 2014 Bellin Run is scheduled for 8 a.m. on Saturday, June 14. Register now at www.bellinrun.com.