Running comes with several potential discomforts and pains, including muscle soreness, blisters and chafing. Learning how to avoid and manage those discomforts makes it easier to stick with your running routine so you are able to enjoy the physical benefits. If you notice chafing on your inner legs, take steps to prevent the condition through your choice of clothing and the way you prepare for your run.
Cause
As you run, your legs may rub together or rub against the fabric of the clothing you wear. This constant rubbing creates friction that sometimes leads to chafing. Sweat produced as you run may contribute to chafing. The result is sore, red, raw skin on the affected area. If the chafing continues to worsen, open wounds may develop. In addition to the inner leg area, chafing typically occurs in runners in the chest and underarm area.
Clothing Choice
The clothing you choose for your run plays a role in chafing, with certain fabric and clothing styles contributing to chafing. Avoid rough fabrics that will rub harder on your skin. Choose a fabric that allows the skin to breathe and also wicks away the moisture from your body. Synthetic wicking fabrics often work best. Clothing should fit snugly, but not too tight. Loose clothing or pants that are too tight make the friction worse, increasing the risk of chafing. The seams and stitching also are a consideration. Large, rough seams rub the inner leg area more.
Prevention Methods
If chafing is a concern, prepare your legs before the run to reduce the chances of chafing. If your body lacks hydration, the sweating process becomes interrupted. Your body may sweat initially but then slow or stop, allowing the salt from your sweat to crystallize and increase chafing. Drink lots of water before, during and after your run. Powders to keep the area dry also work to reduce the friction and chafing. In addition to a pair of moisture-wicking pants, try covering the area that tends to chafe with talcum powder or cornstarch before you run. Lubricating the area is another way to reduce the friction that causes chafing. Use petroleum jelly or special lubricants for runners.
Treatment
Even with preventive measures, runners still experience chafing on their legs. The use of petroleum jelly after you chafe may help prevent a more severe irritation. First aid ointments or similar creams help heal the affected area. If the area begins to bleed, clean it frequently to prevent an infection. You may need to take a break from running or slow down your routine to allow the chafing to heal.
