Many individuals find the sport of running enjoyable. However, there is a vast array of common running injuries that may occur when one is participating in this activity. Certain injuries can cause quite a bit of pain. Below are some examples of injuries that runners may occasionally experience:

Achilles tendinitis affects the tissues that connect the muscles of the person's lower leg to his or her heel. These tissues become swollen and painful when achilles tendinitis is present. The injury is associated with many causes, such as wearing improper running shoes, trying to cover more miles than one can realistically handle, or simply running too fast. When this kind of tendinitis strikes, the runner should elevate the affected leg without disturbing the heel until the inflammation begins to subside.

Many runners have experienced an ankle sprain at some point in their life. Such sprains can easily occur if a bad step is taken or the height of a curb is misjudged. Ice will help the sprain initially, after which one can alternate between heat and ice for two to three days until sprain begins to subside. If a broken bone is suspected, however, X-rays should be taken.

Long-distance runners sometimes experience planner fasciitis, although virtually any person can be affected by this condition. The plantar fascia is a tissue band that stretches across the bottom of one's foot. Planner fasciitis occurs when this band becomes swollen and inflamed. Patients with this condition complain of sharp pain in the arch of the foot and the sensation that they are stepping on pebbles. There are not many effective treatments for the condition other than an extended period of rest.

Runner's knee commonly occurs when one attempts to push himself or herself too far. Their results in an improper positioning of the kneecap, leading to cartilage loss in the area of the ball and socket joint. It is often quite painful and frequently requires medical attention.

Stress fractures can also occur if one pushes himself or herself too far. Stress fractures are essentially small hairline cracks that can occur in virtually any bone, although they are most often seen in the shins or feet. They cause pain and discomfort and are frequently mistaken for sprains. One should refrain from running if a stress fracture has occurred, as the bone will not heal if it is subjected to continuous abuse.

Both long-distance runners and sprinters sometimes experience pulled hamstrings. Although the reason has eluded medical doctors, some individuals are more prone to such injuries than others. A pulled hamstring can cause muscle spasms and a deep ache in the back of the runner's upper leg. It is a condition that requires medical evaluation if one is to make a speedy recovery.

If an injury occurs, it is wise for one to stop running until he or she has recovered. This is because common running injuries can result in serious complications if adequate time is not allowed for one's recovery. Runners who are unsure about how to treat their injuries should be evaluated by a health care practitioner as soon as possible.