Running Injury Treatment in Houston, TX
Whether you’re training for your first 5K or your tenth marathon, foot and ankle pain can bring your running to a halt. Dr. Ken Dennis completed a Fellowship in Training through the American Academy of Podiatric Sports Medicine and served as Medical Director of the Houston Marathon, giving him decades of experience helping runners recover and get back on the road.
Common Running Injuries of the Foot & Ankle
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Achilles tendonitis
- Stress fractures of the metatarsals and heel
- Ankle sprains and ankle pain
- Top of foot pain and extensor tendonitis
- Morton’s neuroma and metatarsalgia
- Posterior tibial tendonitis and shin splints
- Black toenails, blisters, and ingrown toenails
What Causes Running Injuries?
Most running injuries are overuse injuries. They develop when training load increases faster than the body can adapt. Common contributors include:
- Increasing mileage or speed too quickly
- Worn-out or poorly fitted running shoes
- Flat feet, high arches, or overpronation
- Tight calves and Achilles tendons
- Hard or uneven running surfaces
- Inadequate rest and recovery
Diagnosing Your Running Injury
Dr. Dennis evaluates your symptoms, training history, footwear, and running mechanics, and uses in-office X-rays or MRI when needed to rule out stress fractures and tendon tears. Understanding why the injury happened is the key to preventing it from coming back.
Running Injury Treatment Options
- Activity modification and a safe return-to-run plan
- Stretching and strengthening programs
- Custom foot orthotics to correct running mechanics
- Footwear recommendations
- Bracing, taping, or a walking boot
- Anti-inflammatory medication and injections
- Surgery for injuries that don’t respond to conservative care
Get Back to Running
Running through pain can turn a minor injury into a long layoff. Learn more about sports injuries of the foot and pediatric overuse injuries, read our running injury prevention tips, or call Kenrick J. Dennis, DPM at (713) 465-8833.
Running Injury FAQs
What is the most common running injury of the foot?
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common running injuries, causing heel and arch pain, especially with the first steps in the morning.
Should I stop running if my foot hurts?
If pain changes your stride, worsens during a run, or lingers after rest, stop running and have it evaluated to avoid a more serious injury.
How do I know if I have a stress fracture?
Stress fractures cause pinpoint pain that worsens with activity and may come with swelling. X-rays or an MRI can confirm the diagnosis.
Can custom orthotics help runners?
Yes. Custom orthotics can correct overpronation and other mechanical issues that contribute to plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, and knee pain.
How often should I replace my running shoes?
Most running shoes should be replaced every 300 to 500 miles, or sooner if you notice uneven wear or new aches.
Does Dr. Dennis treat marathon runners?
Yes. Dr. Dennis is a fellowship-trained sports podiatrist and former Medical Director of the Houston Marathon.