🩺Running & Running Injuries: A Chiropractic Perspective

Why Running Injuries Are So Common

Running is one of the most accessible and effective forms of exercise—but it’s also one of the most injury-prone. Repetitive impact, poor biomechanics, improper footwear, and inadequate recovery can all contribute to pain and dysfunction over time.

From a chiropractic perspective, many running injuries aren’t just localized problems—they’re often the result of imbalances in the spine, pelvis, and lower extremity mechanics that alter how force travels through the body.

When these issues go unaddressed, runners may experience recurring injuries that limit performance or stop them from running altogether.

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Most Common Running Injuries Chiropractors See

1. Plantar Fasciitis

• Heel or arch pain, especially first thing in the morning
• Often linked to foot biomechanics, calf tightness, and pelvic alignment issues

2. Shin Splints

• Pain along the inner shin
• Commonly caused by improper shock absorption and altered gait mechanics

3. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

• Pain around or behind the kneecap
• Frequently associated with hip instability, pelvic imbalance, or poor tracking of the knee joint

4. IT Band Syndrome

• Sharp pain on the outside of the knee or thigh
• Often rooted in hip dysfunction and pelvic misalignment rather than the knee itself

5. Achilles Tendinitis

• Tightness, stiffness, or pain in the Achilles tendon
• Linked to calf tightness, ankle mobility restrictions, and faulty running mechanics

6. Low Back & Hip Pain

• Common in long-distance runners
• Often caused by spinal joint restriction, core weakness, or pelvic asymmetry

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How Chiropractic Care Helps Runners

1. Restores Proper Joint Motion

Chiropractic adjustments help restore mobility in the spine, pelvis, hips, knees, and ankles—allowing your body to move more efficiently and absorb impact correctly.

2. Improves Running Biomechanics

Small joint restrictions can dramatically change your gait. Chiropractic care helps correct these imbalances, reducing stress on muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

3. Reduces Pain & Inflammation

By improving joint function and nervous system communication, chiropractic care can decrease pain and promote natural healing without reliance on medication.

4. Addresses the Root Cause

Instead of just treating symptoms, chiropractors look at why the injury occurred—helping prevent future flare-ups and recurring injuries.

5. Enhances Performance & Recovery

Runners often report improved stride efficiency, flexibility, and faster recovery times with regular chiropractic care.

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When Should Runners See a Chiropractor?

• Pain that lasts more than a few days
• Recurrent injuries despite rest or stretching
• Decreased running performance
• Pain that worsens with activity
• Low back, hip, or knee pain during or after runs

Early care can often prevent minor issues from becoming season-ending injuries.

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Tips for Preventing Running Injuries

✔ Warm up properly before runs
✔ Strengthen hips and core muscles
✔ Replace worn-out running shoes
✔ Increase mileage gradually
✔ Listen to pain signals—don’t ignore them
✔ Get regular chiropractic checkups to maintain alignment

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Chiropractic Care for Runners

Whether you’re a casual jogger or a competitive runner, chiropractic care can help keep you moving efficiently, comfortably, and injury-free—so you can stay focused on your goals, not your pain.