How Runners Can Protect Their Knees During Marathon Season

As the fall marathon season approaches, many runners are thinking about how to protect their knees while running. Whether preparing for a race or increasing mileage, knee care is essential to prevent injury.

Common Knee Injuries for Runners

Runners often experience injuries like patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), iliotibial band (IT band) syndrome, tendonitis, and meniscus tears. These injuries are often due to the repetitive stress placed on the knees during running.

Preventing Knee Injuries

To prevent these injuries, it’s important to strengthen the quadriceps, hamstrings, and glutes. Stability at the hips, lower back, and ankles also helps reduce knee strain. Proper warmups and cool-downs, wearing the right footwear, and replacing shoes after 300-500 miles are key preventative steps. Listening to your body and resting when needed can save you from long-term damage.

Managing Knee Pain

If knee pain begins, it’s important to take a break from running, use ice for short-term relief, and try compression sleeves for added support. Cross-training with low-impact activities like swimming or cycling can help maintain fitness while giving the knees time to heal.

Advanced Treatment Options

For chronic knee pain or serious injuries, advanced treatments like Prolotherapy, Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), or Bone Marrow Concentrate, Which Contains Your Own Stem Cells may be necessary. These options can help repair damaged tissues, reduce inflammation, and improve knee stability, offering a non-surgical way to recover and keep running.

By focusing on prevention, addressing issues early, and considering advanced treatments when needed, runners can stay injury-free and keep enjoying their runs.