Most Common Running Injuries, Treatment and Prevention Running is a great sport, but you need to be aware that pushing yourself too hard can cause painful knee, shin and thigh injuries. Running has been described as the purest, simplest form of exercise and a great sport to start when you are older. Pushing yourself too hard, such as running faster or for longer distances than the body can tolerate, can lead to injuries. Biomechanics, running style, footwear, and many other factors also play a role in causing running injuries. Here are the most common running injuries and how they can be treated and prevented. Achilles Tendinitis: This is inflammation of the Achilles tendon, and causes pain and swelling just above the heel. The pain is worse in the morning and increases with activity. The condition is the result of running long distances, which puts additional stress on the tendon and also due to tight calf muscles.
Plantar Fasciitis: This is another painful condition of the heel. Plantar fasciitis is the result of long-distance running which increases stress on this part of the leg. It causes inflammation in the plantar fascia, the tough and flexible band of tissue that connects the heel bone to the toes. Symptoms include excruciating pain and inflammation leading to difficulty standing and walking.