What are the risks of re-injury after a running injury?

When runners go to visit their physio, Subiaco one of the most commonly asked questions is what are the odds of re-injury now that I have had this injury? Whether you are an elite athlete or a recreational runner it is an important question. Here we look at some common running injuries and what the risks are if re-injury occurs both in that same area, or another in a different area.

Previous injuries are a strong risk factor in the chance of another injury

The fact is that previous injuries are a big factor in the risk of future injuries. In professional athletes’ part of their training and strategy is to consider this when reducing the risk. After all, spending time out because of an injury for them costs money, takes a physical toll and has a psychological cost. Re-injury and subsequent injury risks need evaluating since even when treated they will have an impact on short-term and long-term tissue integrity.

Understanding common running injuries

Soft tissue injuries are especially of concern with your physio West Perth when it comes to re-injury or subsequent injuries. No matter what level of running you are at either could happen. Injuries received to areas such as calves, hamstrings, adductors and quadriceps are more likely to have subsequent injuries. Re-injury or subsequent injury is more likely up to 15 weeks after returning to your sport. Here is a look at some of the common injuries.

1) Patellofemoral or kneecap pain

PFP is found to be the cause of knee pain in almost half of the runners with knee injuries. Studies have shown that people also report symptoms that persist for as long as 20 years later. In young runners a study that followed up 2 years later they found over half still had symptoms. Basically, early management and using intervention including from a physiotherapist is key to reducing later issues but it will not get rid of them.

2) ITB syndrome

Twelve percent of all running injuries are from ITB syndrome but it is one of the injuries that does not seem to increase the risk of recurring injury. In studies after a proper 6-week rehabilitation program with your physio Subiaco or elsewhere, there has been no reinjury 6 months later.

3) BSI

Bone stress injuries or stress fractures happen when there is an overload to the bone. In athletic running after 1 year between 8 and 20 percent of athletes experience this kind of injury. It is a big risk factor for future re-injury at the same site and to some degree of subsequent injury. Related issues may arise such as sleep deprivation, low bone mineral density and low vitamin D.

4) Ankle sprains

Ankle sprains are a very frequent running injury and they have a high rate of leading to reinjury after the first sprain. Runners with a history of ankle sprains are 3.5 times more likely to sustain another sprain than those with no history. 25% of those have it lead to chronic ankle instability.

5) Tendinopathy

These are when the tendon, the hamstring or the Achilles is injured and it can take a long time to recover. As well as seeking professional treatment with a physio West Perth, you need time to strengthen and carefully increase the load you put on it and reinjury is common because people push too soon and too hard.