Injury Center

This page is not intended to take the place of the advice given by your coach or a doctor.  The material presented on this page is intended to supplement the advice of your coach and allow the athlete to further read about a particular injury or condition.  Some links provide helpful diagrams of stretching routines.  If you have any further information to add or questions please promptly address them to your coach.

      The best advice on how to treat an injury is to prevent the injury.  An athlete should always ask themselves "is there anything else I can do?"  Proper training is only part of the equation.  An athlete should do such preventative measures as:  stretching, ice-bath's, weight training (sit-ups and push-ups are a start), proper nutrition (hydration), and proper sleep.  In order to achieve a high level of performance in athletics an athlete should have a life-style that is beneficial to the athlete.

SHOES

     One of the most often over-looked items in the equation are the shoes.  An athlete needs a good pair of running shoes (not cross trainers, walking shoes, etc.) that will help support and cushion the athlete.  A well fitting pair of shoes will help prevent injuries that could otherwise hamper or ruin a season.  A pair of shoes that are worn out will lead to joint pain and muscle injuries.  A good pair of shoes will last for 300-400 miles (about 10 weeks for a typical SRVHS athlete).  If you have questions about your shoes talk to a coach.

     A great place to get a good pair of running shoes is at Forward Motion in Danville or Walnut Creek.  They have a knowledgeable staff that can help you pick out a pair of shoes that will fit your foot.  If you just pick a pair of shoes off the wall at a sporting goods store you run the risk of getting a shoe that is not appropriate for your foot and body mechanics.  An improper fitting shoe can harm you instead of help you.

Helpful websites

General injury websites

familydoctor.org-  A site that allows you to type the injury in and search for a full "handout" on causes and cures.

drpribut.com-  A doctor that has a site that discusses some of the health issues affecting runners.  Heat stroke, runners knee, and plantar fasciities and looked at.

podiatrychannel.com-  A site about foot care.  The page highlighted here deals with specific foot injuries that strike runners.

time-to-run.com-  A running site with an article about 5 common running injuries.

Overuse Injuries-  An interesting read about different overuse injuries and how to avoid them.

Common Running Injuries

Patellofemoral Syndrome (Runners Knee)-  A common knee problem characterized by a pain located around and under your kneecap.

Iliotibial Band Injuries-  This appears to be a comprehensive site with a wealth of knowledge (I haven't had time to read all of the material).  Browse around and see what information you come up with.  Discuss what you find out with a coach.