Treating Injuries vs Preventing Them

I receive a lot of e-mails like this:

Jerry,

I injured ________, now I can’t run, what should I do?

Sincerely,
In Pain

First of all, with any kind of injury or chronic pain, you should first go to a doctor and have it check out. Always follow the advice of your doctor.

When you feel pain, during a run, if it is severe enough, and/or it gets worse the further you run, then you should quit running. It sucks, I know, I’ve been there. I have walked a mile or so, usually limping back to my home or car. And, I’m mad because I didn’t get my run in and I don’t know for how long I will have to be away from running. But, it’s better than continuing and creating further injury.

When you receive the injury, you should do what is called RICE. That is Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate. This will help to prevent swelling and quickens the healing process. (Note: This is not first aid, check with your doctor on when and how to properly apply RICE treatment.)

Rest – Don't run until the injury is better
Ice – Ice the area for 20 to 30 minutes
Compression – Using elastic bandages to reduce swelling
Elevation – Raise the injured area to help reduce swelling

However, the best remedy for injuries is to prevent them. I can not stress this enough. It drives me crazy that so many runners get injured. If they would only follow my advice. I know, they don’t know how to prevent injuries. I sure has heck didn’t. And, you know the knowledge is out there. All you have to do is look for it. In fact, you can find some of it here: www.runningtough.com.

Remember, if you are experiencing pain, see a doctor as soon as possible.

And, if you are thinking about or have given up running because of pain or fear of injuries, give my course a try. You can order here: http://www.runningtough.com/order.html.

Thanks,

Jerry Hopkins
jerry@runningtough.com
http://www.runningtough.com


This blog is for educational purposes only. Always consult your own personal doctor for medical advice and follow it even it contradicts what is said in this email.

Copyright 2004

Jerry Hopkins
Hopkins Business Services, Inc.
5314 Yosemite Dr.
Medina, OH 44256
1-866-316-7988