According to one study, 80% of American runners continue running to stay healthy, and another top reason was relieving stress. Whatever your purpose is, the following guide will inform you about common injuries and preventative measures to take, like chiropractic care, so that nothing keeps you from your daily run.

What Are Common Running Injuries?

Neck & Shoulders

If you’re running with poor upper body posture, the repetition of each step will result in pain in your neck and shoulders. Clenching your fists while you run will cause tension to travel up to your trapezius muscles that extend over your back and neck. Other common issues with form include pushing your head forward and rounding your shoulders. 

Poor posture is often caused by a lack of flexibility in the thoracic spine and the rotator muscles in your shoulders. When these areas are tight, it’s difficult and painful to maintain a good running posture.

Lower Back

Lower back injuries are often muscle-related, usually felt on either side of your lower spine, and might result in spasms during and after running. They’re typically caused by weak muscles around your back, including your core, hips, glutes, and hamstrings. As a result, your lower back has to work harder to keep you upright as you run.

How Can You Prevent Injuries?

One of the most important preventative measures you can take is stretching. Stretching enhances the flexibility of your joints and improves their range of motion. Thus, you’ll feel less tension as you run and have an easier time building the muscles you need for proper form.

If you suffer from neck and shoulder pain, it’s a good idea to invest in a foam roller and use it for thoracic openers. This involves lying down with your knees bent, feet flat, and placing your mid-back on a foam roller. For lower back pain, the foam roller will also come in handy. Roll it down your back and, while you’re at it, roll it down your hamstrings. Tight hamstrings will exacerbate the lordotic curve in your lumbar spine, and loosening them will relieve the pressure from your back. 

Additionally, chiropractic care is a natural and ongoing step you can take to prevent injuries and increase flexibility and strength. Through spinal adjustments, your chiropractor will locate misalignment that could be the root of recurring neck and back injuries. Based on your personal needs, they’ll teach you stretches and exercises that will keep muscles flexible and strengthen those around trouble areas.

Get quality chiropractic care so that you can keep doing what you love by visiting Chiropractic Associates Of Platteville LLC in Wisconsin. Their experienced chiropractors will get to the source of your neck or back pain, headaches, and other conditions, to have you ready for your next adventure. Whether you’re a runner suffering from an injury or want to feel better in your daily life, they’ll use cutting edge techniques to treat your pain and get you feeling energized. To schedule an appointment, call (608) 349-3156. Visit their website to learn more about their experienced team.