Plantar Fasciitis involves the foot’s arch. This takes the form of thick tissue from heel to toe and it allows the foot to ‘spring’ thereby absorbing impact. When the plantar fascia collagen fibres break down the individual experiences pain. We find that around two thirds of individuals suffering from this type of injury are experiencing bone growth in the area which then presses down on the plantar fasciitis.
How to tell if you have plantar fasciitis
You experience:
Pain when running (particularly in a downhill direction)
Discomfort in the heel and inside arch of the foot
Initial pain on waking up
The plantar fascia is a thick fibrous band of connective tissue
Archilles Tendinopathy is a breakdown of tissue structure rather than inflammation. This injury can be result of too much training or exercise over a sustained period of time. It can also be caused by rolling at the ankle, a stiff ankle joint or even a change in footwear.
How to tell if you have Achilles tendionopathy
You experience:
Pain above the Achilles
Pain which goes away when resting
Tenderness in the area
Bumps on the tendon
Situated above the heel to form the lower part of the calf muscles
Muscle tension at the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone) can lead to tension and inflammation and tenderness at the front and side of the shin bone. It’s usually caused by overuse.
How to tell if you have a difficulty with shin splints
You experience:
Pain in the shin area
Slight bumps at the shin
It’s particularly painful when you start exercising
Untreated shin splints can lead to a stress reaction in the tibia mid-shaft
Not uncommon amongst those training for a marathon, runner’s knee is the result of a thickening of the Ilio-tibial (band of tissue) on the outside of the leg where the quadriceps muscles sit. Running causes it to hit against the outside of the femur resulting in pain. The knee is also lifted from its normal running position and pain in the knee cap develops.
How to tell if you have runners knee
You experience
Pain in the area around the knee
The knee clicking when you move
Tenderness from hip to knee, outside the leg. It also feels tight.
Pain running downhill
Poor kneecap tracking is believed to be the main cause this condition
A group of three muscles situated from behind the knee to the pelvis, the hamstring muscles allow the knee to bend. Over-stretching can damage them as can vigorous sport or intense gym work. Not stretching prior or after exercise can cause them to become shortened.
How to tell if you have hamstring strain
You experience:
A different walk
Stretching causes pain and the area feels tender
That area (where it hurts) feels weak and as if it’s about to collapse
Understanding how the hamstrings work give vital clues as to their modes of injury
