Running Stress and Chiropractic Care

It is clear that a large percentage of stress injuries to the runner are seen in the foot, leg, hip or pelvis. It appears,says Biomechanical expert Dr. Mark Charette, that these injuries are the result of a high arch, excessive pronation (rolling of the foot), and inequality of leg lenghts (one leg longer that the other).
The four major sources of microtrauma can result in dysfunction are;
1. Overuse
2. Poor training technique
3. Inherent biomechanical stresses
4. Poor shock absorption
Overuse can occur when taxing the muscles beginning a new routine foreign to the muscle than what it normally performs.
Poor training technique can occur when not training on an even surface resulting in excessive stress due to angulation.
Biomechanical stresses are occasionally high due to imbalances which require modifications of performance for complete modification.
Poor shock absorption can result from running on unyielding surfaces or in broken down shoes. Another possibility is mechanical in nature and is due to an extremely high arch of the foot.
Since 95% of fractures occur in the lower extremity, such as foot, leg, hip or pelvis. Typically a patient will report a dull aching pain sensation that is poorly localized. The nagging pain will increase during use of the affected area, and remain for a while after use; then subside altogether.
Three specific conditions have been studied that can be easily noted and corrected in the chiropractic office; the high arch, excessive pronation and inequality of leg lenghts.
The high arc is accommodated by the use of an orthotic taking into consideration that the integrity of the spine rests on a basic platform; the foot. In our office we are able to cast feet for orthotic use and they are surprisingly affordable. Excessive pronation (rolling inward at the ankle) may be due to either arch collapse or lack of development. This causes torque in the leg resulting in fracture from the impact. Lastly, leg lenght discrepancy(short leg) has been shown to lead to increased frequency of stress fractures. Chiropractic treatment consists of placing a pre measured lift in the shoe to help accommodate the deficiency.
All of the above responds well to our care and should be considered when seeking treatment for leg / back pain secondary to running.Lastly, good shoes are paramount to a successful and painless run. Change shoes often (every 6 months or when they show abnormal wear) and when you find a pair that you absolutely love buy 2 pair and cycle them for longer life. Please call or write with questions or to schedule an evaluation by going to www.missionvillagechiropractic.com. Our phone 619-281-1999.