How to prevent common running injuries

Running is a great activity, but improper training can cause injuries and setbacks. Dr. Elizabeth Matzkin of Brigham and Women’s discusses common injuries and their solutions:

Runner’s knee: Knee pain caused when the kneecap moves around, rubbing against other structures

• Solution: reduce mileage, cross-train and strengthen thigh muscles

IT band syndrome: Pain on the lateral part of the knee from overuse or improper form

• Solution: cross-train and improve form

Shin splints: Pain on the front or side of the shins during or just after running

• Solution: cross-train and stretch thoroughly before and after running

– Cindy Peterson, executive director, Brigham and Women’s/Mass General Health Care Center