Runners and Bone Stress Injuries: Part 2

Let’s dive into the differences in pain at the bone versus the tendon. Runners often assume tendon-based pain, but bone stress injuries are popping up at an alarming rate and need to be screened for. 

Bones: 

• Insidious onset

• Doesn’t improve with warmup

• Not localized to a tendon site

• Relieved by non-weightbearing

• Pain with offloading the affected limb

  
  

Tendons: 

• Following a burst of activity

• Often warms up

• Localized to a tendon site

• Stretching can aggravate it

• Energy storage and release (AKA quick, dynamic movements) are the most provocative 

  
  

In essence, we want to consider how different tissues can react differently when in pain, as that changes the course of treatment. These are some of the key things I listen for when talking to runners on evaluations.

Seeing some changes but still want a more individualized approach to your rehab? If you want to learn how to take control with some expert guidance and treatments to optimize your performance and longevity, then that’s exactly what we provide at Zenith Performance Physical Therapy. Call or text us at 562-502-1767 to schedule a free phone consultation and come in for an evaluation!