When to Start Running Again After an Injury
After a running injury, you may be wondering when it’s safe to get back on the road. To answer this question, Physical Therapy Jacksonville experts will need to know what type of injury has been sustained and how long it will take for the injured area to heal. In general, if you have an acute or sudden onset running injury such as a muscle strain or stress fracture, rest is recommended before resuming any physical activity. However, with issues like chronic pain from degenerative arthritis in the knee joint that gradually worsens over time after extensive training sessions then a gradual return to running can begin once medications are optimized and other treatments have been initiated.
The first thing to consider when looking to return to running after an injury is the specific type of injury sustained.
In addition to knowing what type of injury has been sustained, the severity of the running injury and how long it will take for your body to heal can help you determine when it’s safe to begin running again.
For less severe injuries such as a muscle sprain or hip bursitis which typically resolve within one week then resuming physical activity (including running) is usually possible after resting and allowing the injured area time to recover.
However, with more serious conditions like stress fractures that require at least six weeks for bones to mend or a complete Achilles tendon rupture where surgery may be required in order for these tissues grow back together properly then you’ll likely need several months before being able run without pain from an injury flare up. In most cases however, you should always consult with your doctor before resuming running after an injury.