Could these marathon injuries end your race early?

You’re just hitting your stride when ouch — a sudden pain throws off your rhythm. Is it soreness, or something more serious?

“It’s important to understand when it’s ok to push through the pain and when you need to stop,” says David Carfagno, DO, medical director of HonorHealth Medical Fitness.

His expert tips can help you recognize common injuries and keep them from slowing you down.
 

Nagging aches from overuse

Runner’s knee often shows up as a dull ache around the kneecap, especially when running downhill. Plantar fasciitis, or runner’s foot, is inflammation that causes stabbing heel pain.

• What helps: Rest, ice, stretching and strengthening exercises. If pain lingers after a few weeks, check in with your healthcare provider to rule out something more serious.

Shin pain that slows your stride

Ramping up your mileage too quickly or running in worn-out shoes can trigger shin splints, causing pain, tenderness or swelling on the inside of your shins.

• What helps: Ice, rest and sometimes compression to reduce discomfort. To lower your risk, alternate between two pairs of running shoes and increase your weekly mileage gradually — by no more than 10 percent each week.

Stress fractures: Don’t ignore the signs

Stress fractures are more serious and can sideline a runner for months if not caught early. Watch for pain that worsens with activity but eases with rest.

• What helps: If you suspect a stress fracture, stop running and schedule an appointment with your primary care doctor. They may refer you to a sports medicine physician or orthopedist who can determine if an MRI or bone scan is needed to confirm. The good news? With proper rest and care, most athletes make a full recovery.

Tendon issues over time

One common problem is Achilles tendonitis, often triggered by changes in an athlete’s training program — including adding inclines too quickly. Imbalances in muscle strength and flexibility can also lead to chronic tendonitis known as tendinopathy.

"As we get older our tendons start to wear out, like a sock that loses elasticity,” Dr. Carfagno explains.

• What helps: Using a foam roller three to four times a week can increase flexibility by 10-15%, preventing or slowing tendon issues. To ease symptoms, try the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation. If swelling or pain worsens, make a doctor's appointment. Prompt treatment prevents bigger problems down the road.

Keep moving forward

When should you stop running and start looking for help? “Sharp or worsening pain is always a red flag. Don’t push through it,” Dr. Carfagno advises. “The sooner you see a specialist, the easier it is to treat — and the faster we can get you back on track for race day.”