Incidence Of Running-related Injuries Research Articles

Predictors of Running-Related Injury Among Recreational Runners: A Prospective Cohort Study of the Role of Perfectionism, Mental Toughness, and Passion in Running.

The health benefits associated with recreational running are challenged by the occurrence of running-related injuries (RRIs). Effective preventive measures require knowledge of sport injury etiology. Psychological factors such as perfectionism, mental toughness, and passion are believed to predispose to sports injury by influencing training behaviors, motivation to run, and suppression of feelings of fatigue and pain. Yet their association with RRIs are understudied. Perfectionism, mental toughness, and passion predict an increased risk of RRIs in recreational runners. Prospective cohort study. Level 3. A total of 143 recreational runners (age 34.9 ± 13.9 years, 37% women) with a response rate of 76.5% answered an online questionnaire about their characteristics, running behaviors, and psychological variables (perfectionism, mental toughness, and running passion) as well as a sports injury survey. Then, as a primary outcome, RRIs were recorded biweekly for 6 months. The incidence of injuries was expressed as RRI per 1000 hours of running. The association between predictive factors and RRIs was estimated using logistic regression. The incidence of RRIs during follow-up was 5.16 per 1000 hours of running. The knee was the location injured most often (26.4%), followed by the foot (18.9%) and lower leg (13.2%). Higher obsessive passion (OP) for running (odds ratio [OR], 1.11; 95% CI, 1.04-1.20) and perfectionistic concerns (OR, 1.22; CI,1.05-1.41) were associated with a greater risk of RRIs, as were previous injury (OR, 2.49; CI,1.10-5.70), weekly running distance (OR,1.10; CI, 1.03-1.16), and both supinated (OR, 4.51; CI, 1.11-18.30) and pronated (OR, 3.55; CI, 1.29-9.80) foot type. Following a running schedule (OR, 0.24; CI, 0.09-0.66) was associated with a lower risk of RRIs. History of previous RRI, pronated and supinated foot type, weekly running distance, perfectionistic concerns, and OP increased RRI risk in recreational runners. Following a running schedule was a protective factor. Multiple factors, including runners' psychological characteristics, predict RRIs. These findings can inform the development of injury risk management strategies.

A Randomized Pilot Study Comparing the Impact of Strengthening-Based Running Training with Only Running on the Incidence of Running-Related Injuries among Novice Runners.

Running-related injuries (RRI) are common in novice runners. Reducing early training running volume with strengthening activities may improve RRI without impeding running performance. 1. Gather feasibility data for a randomized, controlled trial comparing a strengthening-based program to a conventional running program; 2. Assess RRI; and 3. Assess running performance. Seventy-four university students (38 females, 21 ± 2.3 years, 68.2 ± 10.8 kg, BMI: 22.6 ± 2.97), all novice runners, were randomized in two groups, i.e., a strengthening and running group (INT) and a running group (CON). The completed sessions, RRI, dropout, and maximal aerobic speed were recorded through an online application. The INT group had 52.6% attrition, while the CON group had 41.7%. The INT group had 56.6% adherence, while the CON group had 45.7%. The Chi-square test showed no significant difference in RRI incidence across groups (CHI2 = 2.958, p value = 0.08). A two-way ANOVA showed no significant difference in maximal aerobic speed across groups (p = 0.822) or before and after training (p = 0.304). This pilot study confirmed the feasibility of this randomized, controlled trial with a needed sample size of 194. However, novice runners had greater attrition rates when starting. Based on those limited data, strengthening activities that replaced running volume did not improve RRI or maximal aerobic speed.

Musculoskeletal measurements as risk factors for running-related injury in recreational runners: a twelve-month prospective study

Introduction: Recreational running is among the most popular forms of recreational physical activity and participation and is associated with numerous health benefits. A key barrier to participation in recreational running is the high incidence of running-related injury (RRI). The purpose of this study was to use standard clinical musculoskeletal measurements of the lumbopelvic-hip complex, knee, ankle, and foot, to explore relationships between measures at each of these segments and the incidence of RRI.

Gender Effects on Lower Limb Biomechanics of Novice Runners before and after a 5 km Run

Background: Gender has been considered as an influencing factor in the incidence of sports injuries. But few studies have discussed whether gender differences change after long-distance running. This study aimed at investigating whether the kinematic and ground reaction forces (GRFs) differences between males and females were altered by a 5 km run. Methods: Thirty novice runners (15 males and 15 females) with heel strikes were recruited for this study. In the test before and after the 5 km run, the participants were asked to run through the force plate with their right foot at a speed of 3.3 m/s ± 5%. Kinematics data and GRFs were collected synchronously. Each participant completed five successful running trials for further analysis of data. Results: Gender differences existed in ankle sagittal peak angle (pre: p = 0.059; post: p = 0.013), knee frontal peak angle (pre: p = 0.345; post: p = 0.014), knee horizontal nadir angle (pre: p = 0.056; post: p = 0.005), hip frontal nadir angle (pre: p = 0.103; post: p = 0.001) and peak lateral force (pre: p = 0.564; post: p = 0.001) after a 5 km run, but there were no gender differences before a 5 km run. Gender differences in the knee and hip movement in the frontal plane and horizontal plane and anterior-posterior GRFs changed obviously in the stance phase before and after a 5 km run. Conclusions: The gender difference in lower limb biomechanics during running is not constant. Differences change in peak angle, peak lateral force, knee and hip movement in the frontal plane and horizontal plane, and anterior-posterior GRFs between males and females were associated with the different incidence of running-related injuries, such as patellofemoral joint injuries, anterior cruciate ligament injury and iliotibial band syndrome, etc. These changes can give some concrete details to explore the different incidence rates of lower limb sports injuries between genders.

Use of monitoring technology and injury incidence among recreational runners: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMonitoring technology is increasingly accessible to recreational runners. Our aim was to examine patterns of technology use in recreational runners, and its potential association with injury.MethodsWe conducted a cross-sectional questionnaire study in a sample of adult runners. Recruitment took place at three different 5 km parkrun event across Northern Ireland. Demographics, technology use, running behaviour and running-related injury (RRI) history were examined. Regression analyses were performed to determine relationships between variables.ResultsResponses were obtained from 192 of 483 eligible finishers (39.8% response rate). Average age was 45.9 years (SD 10.3), with males (47.1 years SD 9.7) slightly older than females (44.8 years SD 10.8). On average, participants ran 3.0 days per week (SD 1.3), with an average weekly distance of 22.6 km (SD 19.7). Males typically ran further (MD 6.2 km/week; 95% CI 0.4 to 12.0) than females. Monitoring technology was used by 87.4% (153/175); with GPS watches the most common device (87.6% (134/153)). Runners using monitoring technology ran further (MD 14.4 km/week; 95% CI 10.3 to 18.5) and more frequently (MD 1.3 days/week; 95% CI 0.7 to 1.9) than those who did not use monitoring technology. There was no significant difference in average age between runners who used monitoring technology and those who did not (MD 4.0 years; 95% CI −0.7 to 8.7). RRI was reported by 40.6% (71/175) of participants in the previous 12 months. In a univariate analysis, none of the selected predictors (age, number of days run per week, distance run per week, or usage of technology to modify training pattern) (p > 0.1) were associated with RRI.ConclusionsThis study found a high prevalence of monitoring technology usage among recreational runners. While the incidence of RRI remains high, it is not associated with the usage of monitoring technology. Further prospective research should examine if monitoring technology can reduce RRI incidence among recreational runners in future.

Prevalence and burden of health problems in competitive adolescent distance runners: A 6-month prospective cohort study

ABSTRACT To describe all health problems (injuries and illnesses) in relation to type, location, incidence, prevalence, time loss, severity, and burden, in competitive adolescent distance runners in England. Prospective observational study: 136 competitive adolescent distance runners (73 female athletes) self-reported all health problems for 24-weeks between May and October 2019. Athletes self-reported health problems using the Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre Questionnaire on Health Problems. The incidence of running-related injury per 1,000 hours of exposure was markedly higher, compared to previous research. At any time, 24% [95% Confidence Intervals (CI): 21–26%] of athletes reported a health problem, with 11% [95% CI: 9–12%] having experienced a health problem that had substantial negative impact on training and performance. Female athletes reported noticeably more illnesses, compared to male athletes, including higher prevalence, incidence, time loss, and severity. The most burdensome health problems, irrespective of sex, included lower leg, knee, and foot/toes injuries, alongside upper respiratory illnesses. The mean weekly prevalence of time loss was relatively low, regardless of health problem type or sex. Competitive adolescent distance runners are likely to be training and competing whilst concurrently experiencing health problems. These findings will support the development of injury and illness prevention measures.

Most Military Runners Report Recent Changes in Running Parameters Before Lower Limb Injury Onset.

While running is a popular activity because of the health and fitness benefits it provides, the yearly incidence of running-related injuries (RRI) is high across all populations of runners, including military members. The etiology of RRI is multifactorial, and despite the numerous studies on risk factors for RRI, there is no clear consensus in the literature on the relative contribution of several intrinsic or extrinsic risk factors to the development of RRI. Furthermore, little is known on RRI profile and running parameters among Canadian military members. The objectives of this study were to (1) describe the clinical presentation of lower limb RRI and running profile among military members and (2) explore any association between recent changes in running parameters (volume or intensity) and specific RRI diagnoses. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 107 military members from the Canadian Armed Forces (Valcartier Military Base) who presented with a restriction or interruption of running because of lower limb running-related pain. The following variables were collected during a physiotherapy evaluation: injury location and diagnosis, running kinematics (foot strike pattern and step rate), degree of minimalism of running shoes, running parameters in the last 3 months before consultation (volume, duration, frequency, and intensity), and recent changes in training before pain onset. Descriptive statistical analyses were conducted to describe the clinical presentation and running profile, while chi-square tests and multiple correspondence analysis were used to explore the association between recent changes in running parameters and diagnosis. This study was approved by the institutional ethics committee, and participants signed a detailed consent form. Among the 107 participants included in the study (mean age: 30.7 ± 8.9 years; 13 females), the most common diagnoses were patellofemoral pain (26.2%), medial tibial stress syndrome (11.2%), plantar fasciopathy (9.3%), and sciatica (9.3%). The average Minimalist Index of running shoes was 27.6 ± 18.5%. Step rate was 161.7 ± 10.3 steps per minute, and 73.3% of the participants used a rearfoot strike pattern. The majority of military runners reported previous RRI, gradual onset of symptoms, and recent changes in their training parameters (75.7%) before injury onset. No association was found between recent changes in running volume ((χ2(4) = 2.849; P = .606)) or intensity ((χ2(4) = 1.381; P = .855)) and diagnosis. This is the first study to specifically investigate RRI and running profile among Canadian military members. The most common injuries were located at the knee, and the most frequent diagnosis was patellofemoral pain. The majority of military runners reported previous RRI as well as recent changes in their running parameters before injury onset, but unique types of recent changes were not associated with specific diagnoses. This study illustrates the need to further investigate the impact of training loads on the development of RRI.

Foot Core Training to Prevent Running-Related Injuries: A Survival Analysis of a Single-Blind, Randomized Controlled Trial

Background: Running-related injuries (RRIs) are a pervasive menace that can interrupt or end the participation of recreational runners in this healthy physical activity. To date, no satisfactory treatment has been developed to prevent RRIs. Purpose: To investigate the efficacy of a novel foot core strengthening protocol based on a ground-up approach to reduce the incidence of RRIs in recreational long-distance runners over the course of a 1-year follow-up. Study Design: Randomized controlled trial; Level of evidence, 1. Methods: The participants, 118 runners, were assessed at baseline and randomly allocated to either an intervention group (n = 57) or a control group (n = 61). The intervention group received an 8-week training course focused on the foot-ankle muscles, followed by remotely supervised training thereafter. Assessments consisted of 3 separate biomechanical evaluations of foot strength and foot posture and a weekly report on each participant’s running distance, pace, and injury incidence over 12 months. Results: The control group participants were 2.42 times (95% CI, 1.98-3.62) more likely to experience an RRI within the 12-month study period than participants in the intervention group (P = .035). Time to injury was significantly correlated with Foot Posture Index (P = .031; r = 0.41) and foot strength gain (P = .044; r = 0.45) scores. This foot exercise program showed evidence of effective RRI risk reduction in recreational runners at 4 to 8 months of training. Conclusion: Recreational runners randomized to the new foot core strengthening protocol had a 2.42-fold lower rate of RRIs compared with the control group. Further studies are recommended to better understand the underlying biomechanical mechanisms of injury, types of injuries, and subgroups of runners who might benefit maximally. Registration: NCT02306148 (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier).

Prevalence and risk factors of running-related injuries in Korean non-elite runners: a cross-sectional survey study.

Due to the lack of consensus definition of running-related injuries, the prevalence and incidence of running-related injuries had been reported to vary between 19% and 92%. Moreover, the epidemiology of running-related injuries in Asian populations has been rarely investigated. The purpose of this study was to use the consensus definition of running-related injuries and investigate the epidemiology of running-related injuries in a Korean population. Using the cross-sectional design, an online survey was circulated among various running communities in Korea. The questionnaire contained information on the presence and location of pain attributed to running, demographic characteristics, weekly running mileage, participation in high-intensity training, running pace, the longest running event participated, the type of shoes, foot strike, the reason for running, and exercise experience prior to running. Among 1046 runners (male=624, female=422) who responded, 94.7% experienced pain while running, but only 37% were categorized as having running-related injuries. The most common site of injury was the knee followed by the ankle. Exercise experience prior to running (OR=1.57 95% CI: 1.13-2.21), setting specific running goals (OR=1.57 95% CI: 1.08-2.27), increases in weekly running mileage (OR=1.66 95% CI: 1.05-2.62), and the longest running event participated (OR=2.15 95% CI: 1.22-4.05) were associated with significant increases in running-related injuries. To avoid running-related injuries, runners should be careful when increasing weekly mileage. Moreover, runners with previous exercise experience may need to approach running more cautiously. Setting goals and pursuing longer-distance running events may be motivating, but at the same time, can increase the risk of running-related injuries.

Relationships Between Sport Specialization and Running-Related Injury Among Competitive High School Cross-Country Runners

BACKGROUND:During the past few decades, the number of participants in high school cross-country has increased. Simultaneously with its popularity has been an increased incidence of running-related injury (RRI). Limited risk factors have been examined in their relationship to RRI in this population. Of these, few studies have reported on the prevalence of sport specialization and its association with RRI among competitive high school cross-country runners.PURPOSE:The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of sport specialization and examine its risk association with RRI in competitive high school cross-country runners.METHODS:We prospectively followed 93 runners (35 females, 15.7±1.1y) who competed in the 2018 interscholastic cross-country season in Southern California. At baseline, all runners were injury-free and completed the study questionnaire, which included questions on whether cross-country was their primary sport, the number of months/year spent running-related training, and if they quit another sport(s) to focus on cross-country/track distance running during the past year. High (all 3 factors), moderate (2 of 3 factors) and low (0 or 1 factors) sport specialization was then determined using a widely-utilized scale. Injury occurrence data for all runners was recorded throughout the cross-country season using a standardized injury reporting system. Odds Ratio (OR) estimates and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were used to determine the association between sport specialization and likelihood of RRI.RESULTS:Of the 93 runners, 15 (16.1%) met criteria for high sport specialization, 49 (52.7%) were classified as moderately specialized, and 29 (31.2%) runners were classified as low sport specializers. The prevalence of high sport specialization was similar between female (17.1%) and male (15.5%) runners (p=0.38). Twenty-six runners (28%) experienced a time loss RRI, with a higher percentage among female runners (37.1%) than males (22.4%) (p=0.16). Although the incidence of injury was greater among high sport specializers (40.0%) than low sport specializers (24.1%), the likelihood of RRI was not statistically significant (OR=2.10, 95% CI: 0.6-8.0; p=0.28). Similar risk associations between high sport specialization and RRI were found between female and male runners.CONCLUSIONS:Based on the existing classification method for sport specialization, these findings indicated that high sports specialization was not common among competitive high school cross-country runners in this study sample. As the incidence of RRI was almost twice as great among high sport specializers, studies assessing larger populations of high school cross-country runners are needed to better evaluate this relationship.

Lower-extremity running-related injuries among 10,000-meter long distance runners in Ethiopia

Despite the popularity and health benefits of running, a popular sporting activity performed by many individuals worldwide, runners are at risk of being injured. Of concern is the lack of evidence-based data and information on Ethiopian 10, 000-meter long-distance runners. The purpose of this study was to establish the incidence and the risk factors associated with lower-extremity running-related injuries amongst 10, 000-meter long distance runners in Ethiopia. A prospective study was used over a period of ten months in eleven running clubs and twelve Youth Athletics Training Programs in Amhara Regional State and Addis Ababa. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire on 1) demographic characteristics; 2) risk factors associates with running-related injuries and, 3) their injury status. Logistic regression analysis and odds ratio (OR) and its 95% confidence interval (CI) was estimated for the predictor variables. The incidence of running-related injury was 62.4%, corresponding to 0.35 injuries per 100 running hours or 3.54 injuries per 1000 running hours. The most commonly injured anatomical site was the knee (33.6%), with a strain the most common type of injury (36.4%). Participants previously injured had an 8.20 higher OR (2.14-31.40). Runners who train respectively 40km-50km (OR = 0.003, 95% CI, 0.000-0.073) and 50km-60km (OR = 0.053, 95% CI, 0.004-0.728) per week and runners that wore running shoes eight to eleven months (OR = 0.033, 95% CI, 0.003-0.392) was significantly associated with a protective benefit against running-related injuries. Runners, coaches, and medical professionals must acknowledge the specific risk factors associated with running-related injuries. The results underscore urgent interventions to ensure that 10 000-meter Ethiopian long distance runners become injury free.

Association between the Foot Posture Index and running related injuries: A case-control study

BackgroundNovice runners are at significantly greater risk of running-related injuries than experienced recreational runners. To develop prevention strategies for this population, it is important to identify predisposing factors that contribute to the incidence of these injuries. This study aims to assess the relationship between running-related injuries, foot posture and other factors in novice runners. MethodsCase-control study in 600 novice runners, classified as cases or controls based on incidence of running-related injuries. Participants' foot posture was measured using the Foot Posture Index, and we performed a descriptive analysis of the explanatory variables, comparing cases and controls. To assess the association between the injury and the presence of exposure and other explanatory variables, we performed a simple logistic regression for each variable and then fit a multivariable regression model. FindingsOur regression model showed that high supination was associated with 76.8 times higher odds of injury than a neutral Foot Posture Index score (P < 0.001). High pronation was associated with 20-fold higher odds of injury than neutral foot posture (P < 0.001). Other variables such as running surface, number of shoes used, and body mass index were also associated with injury. The model showed an acceptable predictive capacity, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.7753. InterpretationIf the association between Foot Posture Index and running-related injury is confirmed in large prospective studies, running programs for beginners should consider foot posture in efforts to prevent running-related injuries.

Differences in injury risk and characteristics of injuries between novice and experienced runners over a 4-year period

ABSTRACTObjectives: Running is increasingly popular, but also carries a high injury risk, especially in novice runners. This study investigates differences in incidence and characteristics of running-related injuries (RRIs) between novice and experienced runners in the open population, in order to adapt to more specific needs for future prevention programs.Methods: Data were obtained from Injuries and Physical Activity in the Netherlands (IPAN), a Dutch questionnaire on injuries, physical activity, and sports. A representative sample of runners (n = 4621) from IPAN, including 1405 novice runners, was used to assess injury incidence rates, anatomical site, onset and need for medical attention of RRIs. Participants who started running during the past 12 months were defined as ‘novice’ runners. ‘Experienced’ runners are participants who had been running for more than 1 year.Results: Of the 4621 runners, 41,8% were female. The average age was 34.2 years. From 2010 to 2013, a total of 416 injuries were reported. The incidence of RRIs was significantly higher in novice runners compared with experienced runners: 8.78 (8.59–8.96) vs. 4.24 (4.11–4.37) per 1000 h running. In both novice and experienced runners, most RRIs were located at the knee (30.5%) and lower leg (17.8%), with the Achilles’ tendon less frequently injured in novice runners (2.3% vs. 8.4%, p = 0.031). Novice runners sustained more medical attention injuries (36.8%) than experienced runners (29.2%) (p > 0.132).Conclusions: In total, over 30% of all (novice and experienced) runners, suffered from RRI within 1 year. Novice runners reported more injuries per 1000 h of running in comparison to experienced runners. A tendency toward receiving medical attention more frequently was found in novice runners compared to experienced runners. In view of this higher injury incidence of RRIs and healthcare consumption in novice runners, more studies are needed to develop effective injury prevention programs for novice runners.

A STUDY ON MEDICATION USE AND INJURIES IN OVER 1500 NOVICE RUNNERS

BackgroundIn sedentary subjects use of medication is expected to be high which may cause problems when taking up exercise as several types of medication have been linked to musculoskeletal disorders.ObjectiveTo...

Lower limb alignment characteristics are not associated with running injuries in runners: Prospective cohort study

There is conflicting evidence on the association between lower limb alignment characteristics and the incidence of running-related injury (RRI). Therefore, the primary aim of this study was to investigate the association between lower limb alignment characteristics and the incidence proportion of RRI in a convenience sample of recreational runners. A total of 89 recreational runners were included in this prospective cohort study. These participants had been running for at least six months and were injury-free at baseline. Lower limb alignment measurements were conducted in order to calculate lower limb discrepancy, Q-angle, subtalar angle and plantar index. All participants also answered a baseline and biweekly online surveys about their running routine, history of RRI and newly developed RRI over a period of 12 weeks. The prevalence of previous RRI and the 12-week incidence proportion of new RRI were calculated. Logistic regression analysis was performed to estimate the association between lower limb length discrepancy, Q-angle, subtalar angle and plantar ach index with the incidence proportion of RRI. The prevalence of previous RRI was 55.1% (n = 49). The 12-week incidence proportion of new RRI was 27.0% (n = 24). Muscle injuries and tendinopathies were the main types of RRI identified. The lower leg and the knee were the main anatomical regions affected. We did not find significant associations between lower limb length discrepancy, Q-angle, subtalar angle and plantar arch index and injury occurrence.

The NLstart2run study: Training-related factors associated with running-related injuries in novice runners

The incidence of running-related injuries is high. Some risk factors for injury were identified in novice runners, however, not much is known about the effect of training factors on injury risk. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine the associations between training factors and running-related injuries in novice runners, taking the time varying nature of these training-related factors into account. Prospective cohort study. 1696 participants completed weekly diaries on running exposure and injuries during a 6-week running program for novice runners. Total running volume (min), frequency and mean intensity (Rate of Perceived Exertion) were calculated for the seven days prior to each training session. The association of these time-varying variables with injury was determined in an extended Cox regression analysis. The results of the multivariable analysis showed that running with a higher intensity in the previous week was associated with a higher injury risk. Running frequency was not significantly associated with injury, however a trend towards running three times per week being more hazardous than two times could be observed. Finally, lower running volume was associated with a higher risk of sustaining an injury. These results suggest that running more than 60min at a lower intensity is least injurious. This finding is contrary to our expectations and is presumably the result of other factors. Therefore, the findings should not be used plainly as a guideline for novices. More research is needed to establish the person-specific training patterns that are associated with injury.

Effects of minimalist and traditional running shoes on injury rates: a pilot randomised controlled trial

Despite recent advances in running shoe conception, injuries represent a major concern in the running community. The objective of this study was to gather the pilot data for a larger randomised controlled trial regarding the effects of traditional and minimalist shoes on the incidence of running-related injuries (RRI), as well as the rate of adherence to a running programme. Twenty-six recreational runners were recruited. They were randomly assigned to minimalist (MS) or traditional (TS) shoes and participated in a 16-week training programme. The information on previously reported risk factors for RRI was gathered. Participants reported pain and compliance using an online tool. Main outcome measures included the rates of recruitment, adherence to the programme and programme completion, RRI and the missed training days secondary to the running-related pain. The recruited runners represented 72.2% of potential participants, among which 20 (76.9%) completed the programme. Two subjects dropped out before randomisation, plus three in MS and one in TS during the programme. Rate of adherence was 82.4% in MS and 86.2% in TS. Three runners per group sustained an RRI (25%, 95% C.I. = 9.8%–46.7%). Results support the feasibility of a larger scale study. A total of 116 runners would be needed to detect a clinically significant difference of 20% in injury incidence between MS and TS.

Injuries in runners; a systematic review on risk factors and sex differences.

BackgroundThe popularity of running continues to increase, which means that the incidence of running-related injuries will probably also continue to increase. Little is known about risk factors for running injuries and whether they are sex-specific.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to review information about risk factors and sex-specific differences for running-induced injuries in adults.Search StrategyThe databases PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL and Psych-INFO were searched for relevant articles.Selection CriteriaLongitudinal cohort studies with a minimal follow-up of 1 month that investigated the association between risk factors (personal factors, running/training factors and/or health and lifestyle factors) and the occurrence of lower limb injuries in runners were included.Data Collection and AnalysisTwo reviewers’ independently selected relevant articles from those identified by the systematic search and assessed the risk of bias of the included studies. The strength of the evidence was determined using a best-evidence rating system. Sex differences in risk were determined by calculating the sex ratio for risk factors (the risk factor for women divided by the risk factor for men).Main ResultsOf 400 articles retrieved, 15 longitudinal studies were included, of which 11 were considered high-quality studies and 4 moderate-quality studies. Overall, women were at lower risk than men for sustaining running-related injuries. Strong and moderate evidence was found that a history of previous injury and of having used orthotics/inserts was associated with an increased risk of running injuries. Age, previous sports activity, running on a concrete surface, participating in a marathon, weekly running distance (30–39 miles) and wearing running shoes for 4 to 6 months were associated with a greater risk of injury in women than in men. A history of previous injuries, having a running experience of 0–2 years, restarting running, weekly running distance (20–29 miles) and having a running distance of more than 40 miles per week were associated with a greater risk of running-related injury in men than in women.ConclusionsPrevious injury and use of orthotic/inserts are risk factors for running injuries. There appeared to be differences in the risk profile of men and women, but as few studies presented results for men and women separately, the results should be interpreted with caution. Further research should attempt to minimize methodological bias by paying attention to recall bias for running injuries, follow-up time, and the participation rate of the identified target group.

The NLstart2run study: Incidence and risk factors of running-related injuries in novice runners.

Running is a popular form of physical activity, despite of the high incidence of running-related injuries (RRIs). Because of methodological issues, the etiology of RRIs remains unclear. Therefore, the purposes of the study were to assess the incidence of RRIs and to identify risk factors for RRIs in a large group of novice runners. In total, 1696 runners of a 6-week supervised "Start to Run" program were included in the NLstart2run study. All participants were aged between 18 and 65, completed a baseline questionnaire that covered potential risk factors, and completed at least one running diary. RRIs were registered during the program with a weekly running log. An RRI was defined as a musculo-skeletal complaint of the lower extremity or back attributed to running and hampering running ability for three consecutive training sessions. During the running program, 10.9% of the runners sustained an RRI. The multivariable Cox regression analysis showed that a higher age, higher BMI, previous musculo-skeletal complaints not attributed to sports and no previous running experience were related to RRI. These findings indicate that many novice runners participating in a short-term running program suffer from RRIs. Therefore, the identified risk factors should be considered for screening and prevention purposes.

English

Iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS) is the most common injury of the lateral side of the knee in runners. Runners typically complain of persistent lateral knee pain not associated with swelling, usually it occurs due to one to two miles of running and further worsening of the pain during running on the downhill. The popularity of running is still growing and, as participation increases, the incidence of running-related injuries will also increase. The Iliotibial track (ITT) or the band is an anatomical structure of the lateral upper leg that recently has been highly published as an overused structure during sports. A friction syndrome has been attributed to excessive distance running, inappropriate running regimens and worn footwear (1) . Hence we have taken up this study to study