Running, as a form of exercise, offers a wealth of health benefits that are long lasting and far reaching. Not only do runners see increases in stamina, cardiovascular health and muscle tone, but they find that running helps keep the mind centered and has a calming effect that lasts long after the run is over. But along with every activity, there are certain obstacles that you will encounter as a new runner. Nothing interrupts a new runner more than lower leg pain, which can generally be traced to three areas of the leg.
Anterior Knee Pain
Anterior knee pain can have several causes. With beginning runners the problem occurs because the running motion is something new and the stretching that occurs in the lower leg tends to push up into this most sensitive area around the sides and back of the knee joint. By increasing hamstring flexibility this general soreness can be much improved.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are caused by the constant striking of the heel. The impact of that striking runs from the heel up to the front lower portion of the leg where the muscle and tissue are very sensitive. Shin splints can be a generalized pain (affecting a large area on the front of the leg) or more localized. If the pain is very localized, it could be the result of tibial stress fractures. Although not running is really the best medicine, arch supports might help alleviate some of the discomfort associated with shin splints.
Achilles and Heel
Running is a high-impact exercise when it comes to the legs and nowhere does the impact of running hit harder than on the foot, most notably the heel and Achilles tendon. There is really very little that can be done to improve tendon or heel pain other than resting the overworked portion of the leg and not overdoing it to start off. Allow the body to work up to longer distances as running becomes more a part of your life.
