For many, the act of running contains numerous mental and physical health benefits that motivate runners to be consistent in their practice. Experiencing a runner’s high is just one of the ways running can boost mental health, not to mention that running can improve your physical health, too.
Whether you are a recreational or professional runner, there is always a risk of injury when participating in rigorous, physical activity - especially when it’s a high-impact sport, as running is. The repetitive motion of your feet pounding pavement can take a toll on the ball-and-socket joint of the hip, making runners more susceptible to hip and joint-related injuries.
Below is a compilation of the most common concerns our runner-patients have about their hips:
- What are some preventative measures that I can take to protect my hips?
Having ample time before and after your workout to stretch is one of the easiest ways to prevent workout-related injuries. A previous blog post highlights a list of stretches that can be incorporated into your workout routine. Also, finding the right pair of running shoes can go a long way for providing shock absorption and reducing stress on hip joints.
- Can running put me at a higher risk for hip osteoarthritis?
Running is not expressly linked to hip osteoarthritis. Studies show that running might actually be considered a precautionary action. In fact, lifestyle factors, such as high alcohol consumption and smoking, have been scientifically proven to greatly increase the risk of joint-related diseases in the future.
- What causes hip pain?
There are a multitude of reasons as to why hip pain can occur, but the most common reason amongst runners is due to overuse, or training errors, which can lead to bursitis and other serious conditions if left untreated. Incorporating low-impact movements alongside your regular running sessions can decrease hip pain. Notably, core-strengthening exercises can improve balance and stability.
- How should I treat my hip pain caused by running?
If you experience hip pain while running, it is best to slow to terminate physical activity or at least slow to a walking pace until the pain recedes. Following a healthy diet that integrates vitamin D and calcium-rich foods, such as salmon, greek yogurt, milk, or orange juice, can assist in the healing process as well.
- What should I do if I feel my hip pain getting worse?
Your hips don’t lie; a tell-tale sign of serious hip pain is swelling or extreme difficulty bearing weight on your hip. If you are struggling with constant hip pain before, during, or after runs, don’t delay seeking an orthopedic hip specialist for evaluation and treatment in order to figure out the root cause of discomfort.
Expert Insights from a Leading Hip Specialist
Dr. Benjamin Domb is a nationally recognized orthopedic surgeon specializing in Sports Medicine and Hip Arthroscopy at the forefront of minimally invasive hip treatments. As the founder and Chair of the American Hip Institute (AHI) Research Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to advancing minimally invasive hip treatments, Dr. Domb is committed to patient education and improving treatment options. The American Hip Institute offers a wealth of resources and treatment options for hip arthritis and hip injuries. Contact (833) 872-4477 to request an appointment today!
