You're injured so what should you do?
You're in pain either when you run or after. Something is clearly wrong, so what should you do? It's not really a good idea to self-diagnose but one thing you can do is R.I.C.E.
Rest - Give yourself a break for a few days and see if it gets better
Ice - Crushed ice in a bag is best as it will mould itself around the injury. Put it in a bag or tea towel and don't place it directly on your skin. If all else fails a bag of peas will suffice.
Compression - Use an elasticated bandage to compress the area as this will reduce the swelling.
Elevation - Need an excuse to put your feet up? This is it, assuming it is your leg/foot that hurts!
If you need to, take an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen which will help with any pain and reduce inflammation. Do go and see a professional to get a proper diagnosis.
So who should you see?
Below is a brief description of the various specialists you may come across. Get recommendations from other runners if you can.
GP - would normally be your first port of call but quite often sports injuries will not be their field of expertise.
Physiotherapist - uses a wide range of skills which may include manipulation, acupuncture, mobilisation, massage and exercises, often aided by the use of sophisticated electronic apparatus - all designed to help restore function, relieve pain and promote healing.
Chiropractor - chiropractors focus on the manipulation of joints to restore correct movement and relieve pain.
Osteopath - use a number of techniques to improve mobility and range of movement of a joint. These might include massage, rhythmic passive joint mobilisation or sharp "thrust" techniques.
Podiatrist - is a foot expert who can treat foot injuries and identify issues with your running gait. They can also prescribe and supply orthotics (inner soles that will correct various problems).
Sports Masseur - will iron out tightness, aches and pains which may herald injuries waiting to happen.
Listen to the advice given. If you are told to rest, rest. Better to take a few weeks out now, than months later on.
Rest - Give yourself a break for a few days and see if it gets better
Ice - Crushed ice in a bag is best as it will mould itself around the injury. Put it in a bag or tea towel and don't place it directly on your skin. If all else fails a bag of peas will suffice.
Compression - Use an elasticated bandage to compress the area as this will reduce the swelling.
Elevation - Need an excuse to put your feet up? This is it, assuming it is your leg/foot that hurts!
If you need to, take an anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen which will help with any pain and reduce inflammation. Do go and see a professional to get a proper diagnosis.
So who should you see?
Below is a brief description of the various specialists you may come across. Get recommendations from other runners if you can.
GP - would normally be your first port of call but quite often sports injuries will not be their field of expertise.
Physiotherapist - uses a wide range of skills which may include manipulation, acupuncture, mobilisation, massage and exercises, often aided by the use of sophisticated electronic apparatus - all designed to help restore function, relieve pain and promote healing.
Chiropractor - chiropractors focus on the manipulation of joints to restore correct movement and relieve pain.
Osteopath - use a number of techniques to improve mobility and range of movement of a joint. These might include massage, rhythmic passive joint mobilisation or sharp "thrust" techniques.
Podiatrist - is a foot expert who can treat foot injuries and identify issues with your running gait. They can also prescribe and supply orthotics (inner soles that will correct various problems).
Sports Masseur - will iron out tightness, aches and pains which may herald injuries waiting to happen.
Listen to the advice given. If you are told to rest, rest. Better to take a few weeks out now, than months later on.
