Tendons are slightly stretchable connective tissues that attach bones to muscles and, because of their slightly elastic quality, provide stability while you run. Tendon injuries are not uncommon among runners and usually appear as a result of overuse. Additionally, tendon injuries can be quite painful. Understanding the realm of possible problems may enable you to more effectively treat an injury and return to training sooner.
Peroneal Tendon Injuries
Injuries to the peroneal tendons are a common tendon injury among runners. This pair of tendons protects you from spraining your ankle by keeping your foot in proper position while running. Causes of peroneal injuries include repetitive stress and runners with high arches. These injuries can develop suddenly or over time and usually appear in the form of tendinitis or tears. Symptomatically, peroneal tendinitis involves pain followed by swelling. Additionally, the injured area may be warm to the touch. Tears will also appear in the form of pain and swelling but will also involve an unstable ankle or foot.
Patellar Tendinitis
Knee injuries are regular runner’s ailments. Patellar tendinitis, in particular, is very common among cross country runners. The tendon of your patella, the kneecap, attaches to the tibula, the shinbone, and acts in conjunction with leg muscles to extend the lower leg while running or jumping. Causes of this problem include frequent, intense workouts and leg muscles that are tight. If you are overweight, you are also susceptible to this tendon injury. Symptoms include sudden, continued pain where your knee and tibula meet, often intense during a run, as well as pain when climbing stairs.
Achilles Tendinitis
Achilles tendinitis appears with regularity among runners. Your Achilles tendon is critical to running as it enables you to rise on to your toes and push off your foot as you stride. This form of tendinitis is caused by over-training or by placing too much stress on the tendon and appears gradually. Symptoms include mild to severe pain, especially after running, morning stiffness that gradually fades as you move around, swelling or a lump on the back of the lower leg and also a cracking sound when the tendon is touched.
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