

However, there are also other ways your body may alert you that your exercise routine is harmful. Overtraining by overrunning could lead to minor aches and pains or major injuries to your muscles and joints. Signs You’re OverrunningĪlthough exercise is healthy, too much exercise can be damaging to the body.

Even experienced runners and longtime athletes can suffer an injury due to overrunning. Those who are beginning to run or are increasing their speed or distance may overextend themselves and cause physical pain. Regardless of whether an individual is focused on running or uses this exercise as part of their training regimen, all athletes can sustain an injury from running. However, novice runners are twice as likely to sustain an injury than those who run recreationally. Only 32 percent of long-distance runners face running injuries annually, while 27 percent of novice runners incur injuries. Marathon runners are the most intense of the group, and more than half these individuals suffer an injury each year.

Muscle and joint injuries are quite common among runners, and these ailments can range from temporary discomfort that requires rest to chronic pain that requires medical intervention.īroadly, there are four separate categories of runners, based on the prevalence of their exercise. Unfortunately, even mild aches and pains could be symptoms of a much more serious health issue.

Many of these symptoms are signs the body is improving in a healthy way. Slight aches and pains are typical for those who integrate running into their training programs. Even new shoes can cause you discomfort if they do not fit correctly. Shoes that are worn-out or old may no longer provide you with the support your muscles and joints need. Incorrect footwear - Not only does your form influence your ability to run correctly, but your choice of footwear also impacts your performance.Inadequate stretching - If you’re not properly stretching throughout any portion of your training program, you may begin to experience muscle soreness during or after your run.Slight issues with your neck positioning, keeping your arms rigid or poor chest and shoulder posture could cause aches. Poor form - If you are experiencing discomfort in your shoulders, back, arms or neck while running, your more significant could be the issue.There are a variety of causes of running injuries: However, soreness can also be a sign that your muscles or joints are negatively receiving stress that could lead to aches, pains and potentially even an injury. Muscle soreness can be a positive sign that your muscles are beginning to grow and develop. Are Aches and Pains From Training Normal?Īlthough exercising does provide the body with many health benefits, part of this process does involve some pain or discomfort. If you experience lasting pain that may have been the result of a training injury, we encourage you to schedule an appointment. Our physicians believe knowledge is key to responsible exercise, which is why we’ve identified common symptoms that may or may not be indicative of a running injury. We take great pride in providing compassionate and caring service to patients suffering from pain associated with the injuries running and rigorous physical training can cause. The Orthopedic Institute of Pennsylvania is one of Central PA’s top health care practices. Though some symptoms are common, others can be the result of a running injury. If you are feeling aches and pains throughout your body after training, and wondering, “Do I have a running injury?” it’s essential to determine the cause of the discomfort. Intense running, prolonged running or even improper running can cause the muscles and joints mild to severe damage. Like all other forms of exercise, running can irritate or harm the body. Those who integrate running into their daily or weekly exercise regimens may expose themselves to negative health impacts. With a list of positive health benefits, it’s no wonder why running is a popular exercise that is part of a variety of training programs for a wide range of sports. Many studies show consistent running can help an individual live a longer life. Along with the potential to burn calories and lose weight, running can also benefit the body by improving cardiovascular and cognitive health. Running can be one of the most effective ways to directly benefit from exercise.
