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I have long said that most running injuries are not running injuries at all,
they are overweight injuries. Now I have support for that view from a report
titled "Risk
Factors and Mechanisms of Knee Injuries in Runners." Here's the abstract:
Injuries affect approximately 65% of all runners annually. Many of these
injuries are considered overuse or chronic (e.g. plantar fasciitis, Achilles
tendonitis/strains, knee pain/injury, etc.). Interestingly, most of the
information available on the factors responsible for injury is somewhat
speculative since few studies have conclusively identified the mechanisms
behind such injuries. In a recent study published in Medicine and Science in
Sports and Exercise, researchers at Wake Forest University determined the
relationship of some behavioral and physiological risk factors to knee joint
stresses during running.
Twenty previously uninjured runners were assessed on numerous variables
including quadriceps and hamstring flexibility, quadriceps or Q-angle, and
height and weight. Researchers performed gait analysis to evaluate stride
lengths and to determine tibio-femoral (knee) compressive loads, performed
isokinetic strength testing on the knee extensors, and participants
completed questionnaires.
Of the variables tested, researchers reported that poor hamstring
flexibility, increased body weight, higher weekly mileage and greater
concentric muscle strength all contributed to greater knee stress. Although
previous studies have linked higher Q-angles to knee injuries in runners,
the results of this and other studies question that link.
In addition, previous studies have shown strength training reduces patello-femoral
forces, but the results of this study indicate that concentric strength
increases tibio-femoral compression. Further studies are necessary to
determine the balance of strength factors necessary to optimize knee joint
health in runners. Based on current research trends, it seems as though it
would be wise for runners to improve hamstring flexibility and to achieve an
ideal body weight prior to increasing weekly mileage.
That last sentence is an understatement! I know I, for one, see a direct
correlation between my own ease and enjoyment of running, not to mention injury
prevention, and both flexibility and body weight. Perhaps you have noticed the
same.
Coaching Inquiries: What assists you to be active, strong, and well? How can you
improve your flexibility and body weight? What dynamic stretches and mindfulness
exercises could assist you to become more happily engaged with life? To reply to this Pathway, use our
Feedback Form. To learn more about our
Wellness Coaching programs and to arrange for a complimentary wellness coaching
session, use our Contact Form or
Email Bob.
May you be filled with goodness, peace, and joy.
Bob Tschannen-Moran
President, LifeTrek Coaching International,
www.LifeTrekCoaching.com
CEO & Co-Founder, Center for School Transformation,
www.SchoolTransformation.com
2010-2011 President, International Association of Coaching,
www.CertifiedCoach.org
Address: 121 Will Scarlet Lane, Williamsburg, VA 23185-5043
Phone: (757) 345-3452
Fax: (772) 382-3258
Skype: LifeTrek
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