Marathon Running

Marathon running demands significant physical endurance, mental toughness, and stamina. It can take a toll on your body, which is why it is vital to take good care of yourself before and after the race. Chiropractic care can be an effective way to ensure that your body stays in top condition. Dr. Jeremiah Aden, a chiropractor who has worked with numerous runners and local running groups, offers various services to help runners maintain optimal health, such as kinesiotaping and Graston.

Kinesiotaping involves the use of specialized tape to support muscles and joints, which can aid in reducing inflammation, pain, and discomfort. This technique also provides support and stability to the affected area, which can be particularly beneficial for runners experiencing pain or discomfort in the knees, ankles, or other areas. Kinesiotaping also enhances circulation and lymphatic flow, which accelerates recovery.

Graston is a soft tissue mobilization technique that uses specialized tools to break up scar tissue and adhesions, as well as improve blood flow to the affected area. This technique can help to relieve stiffness or tightness in muscles, improve flexibility, and enhance the range of motion.

In addition to these techniques, chiropractic adjustments can also be highly beneficial for runners. This involves manipulating the spine and other joints to restore proper alignment and function. Chiropractic adjustments can aid in reducing pain and improving mobility, especially for runners dealing with back pain or other issues. Here is a list of common running injuries people can experience:

Runner's Knee: Also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, runner's knee is a common overuse injury that causes pain around the kneecap. Chiropractic care can help alleviate runner's knee by addressing any misalignments in the knee joint or surrounding muscles, as well as providing kinesiotaping and Graston techniques.

Achilles Tendinitis: Achilles tendinitis is inflammation of the Achilles tendon, which connects the calf muscles to the heel bone. Chiropractic care can help with Achilles tendinitis by providing soft tissue mobilization techniques, such as Graston, to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the affected area. Chiropractic adjustments can also help improve the function of the ankle joint, reducing stress on the Achilles tendon.

Plantar Fasciitis: Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the plantar fascia, a band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot. Chiropractic care can help with plantar fasciitis by providing soft tissue mobilization techniques, such as Graston, to break up scar tissue and improve blood flow to the affected area. Chiropractic adjustments can also help improve the function of the ankle and foot joints, reducing stress on the plantar fascia.

Shin Splints: Shin splints are pain along the shinbone (tibia) caused by inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue in the lower leg. Chiropractic care can help with shin splints by providing soft tissue mobilization techniques, such as Graston, to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the affected area.

Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome: IT band syndrome is inflammation of the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs from the hip to the knee. Chiropractic care can help with IT band syndrome by providing soft tissue mobilization techniques, such as Graston, to break up scar tissue and improve blood flow to the affected area. Chiropractic adjustments can also help improve the function of the hip and knee joints, reducing stress on the IT band.

Studies have shown that chiropractic care is effective in treating various conditions, such as neck pain, back pain, and headaches as well. It is also helpful in enhancing athletic performance and reducing the risk of injury. A study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that runners who received chiropractic care experienced a significant reduction in lower back pain and an improvement in running performance.

If you are a marathon runner seeking to maintain your top physical condition, consider adding chiropractic care to your training routine. Dr. Jeremiah Aden at Aden Chiropractic on Bainbridge Island is experienced in working with runners and can help you stay healthy and injury-free while training for your next race.