Running: Why We Have Big Butts, Foot and Knee Problems
Running is what our bodies were made for, according to a recent Smithsonian Channel production, “The Perfect Runner.” Dr. Daniel Leiberman of Harvard University explains that there are key components that allow humans to be able to perform activities like running so efficiently. Looking at the feet/toes, butt muscles, and neck and shoulders of someone while running can provide valuable insight to their effectiveness while running.
Although running may sound relatively benign, the American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation estimates that seventy (70) percent of runners will become injured in some way. According to a poll by runnersworld.com, around 40 per cent of running injuries are knee injuries, but other common running injuries include Achilles tendonitis, shin splints and heel pain. It is no surprise that injuries would occur from the toes, feet, ankles and knees of a runner, as there are a lot of bones, and forces that are transmitted through a relatively small portion of the body. There are 26 bones in each foot, plus the tibia, fibula, femur, and patella that make up the bones from the knee to the ground. These bones combined make up over twenty-five percent of the bones in the entire body.
Doctors of chiropractic can be a great resource for runners of all shapes and sizes. In addition to being experts of the neuromusculoskeletal system of the head, neck, and spine, chiropractors can also support various injuries to the shoulders, arms, hands, hips, knees, and feet. Dr. Leiberman, in the video above, indicated that running is a natural process for humans. Our bodies have certain characteristics that make running natural, and the various muscles, joints, tendons, bones, and unconscious neurological control that are involved with running are enhanced when they are working correctly.
In our office, we help injured runners, as well as other athletes, and non-athletes, by assessing the body’s ability to function at it’s optimal level. Manual muscle testing techniques, such as Applied Kinesiology, and Quantum Neurology rehabilitation are used to evaluate the major nerves of the body. Weaknesses that are identified through these non-invasive physical exam tools, are then strengthened though the use of gentle chiropractic adjustments (manipulation), low level light therapy, proprioceptive exercises, and other non-invasive techniques. When the muscles begin to engage at the appropriate time, and the structural corrections are made, running, and other physical activities become more efficient, and performance is enhanced.
Even though running can be a great source of exercise, it can also be a cause of injury when the body is compensating for weaknesses in the muscles and joints that are used when running. Don’t let pain, or poor running technique keep you from enjoying the exercise you love. Let us help you to achieve your running goals. Contact the Pearland location by calling 832-273-5442, or the Northwest Houston (Cy-Fair) by calling 832-704-9554.