Running Case Study
As a nation we are being challenged to lead healthier lifestyles, with exercise being one of the key elements in doing so.
Running is fast becoming the most popular form of exercise to participate in, especially with the increase of events such as Race for Life, Moonwalk, half and full marathons. However, running and its training does not come without its highs, lows, aches and pains, as Sarah (not her real name) found out.
"A new comer" to the world of exercise, Sarah decided that the 5km Race for Life would be her motivational goal to get fit and active. Having started out unable to run to the end of the road without gasping for breath, Sarah took great pride and delight in the fact she could now run solidly for twenty minutes, following eight weeks of training. Yet, as the race drew closer and her training schedule intensified, the occasional twinge Sarah experienced in her right knee persisted. Nevertheless, Sarah thought that running through the pain would make it better. It did not!
When Sarah arrived for physiotherapy, not only was she limping with knee pain but her lower back and hip were aching too. Her examination highlighted common problems associated with running injuries, primarily incorrect footwear. As a result of having flat feet, Sarah's footwear was not providing the correct support for her instep leading her knee to twist and strain the surrounding ligaments. Furthermore, as a consequence of the pain, it altered the way Sarah ran, leading the muscles in her leg to become inefficient and cause strain to her hip and back.
After a consultation with one of our physiotherapists and our podiatrist, the correct footwear was obtained with the aid of arch supports. The rehabilitation involved strengthening and stretching Sarah's muscles, in conjunction with using ice for pain control. Following four sessions of physiotherapy and an altered training regime, Sarah successfully completed the Race for Life and has now registered for a half marathon!