So we are up to 85 members on the strava group, well done everybody However this means we definitely have more than just one or two silent members who read, follow but don't feel comfortable with asking or sharing. While this is perfectly fine (But please do become more vocal and let us into your world, we not that bad ) , it also means the time will come that these silent members will struggle with injuries and be to afraid to ask as they might be new and think they will be a drag. So here is a basic guideline from Runners World relating to injuries and who to see, hope it's helpful to someone. SPORTS-MEDICINE DOCTOR Physicians with added training in sports medicine are often the best place to start, especially for a new problem. Sports docs can give you a comprehensive evaluation that includes diagnostic tests, from blood counts to bone scans to MRIs. They'll help you resolve issues like vitamin deficiencies or exercise-induced asthma, and may refer you to a specialist to rehab injuries such as runner's knee. Best for: Mystery ailments, fatigue, and health issues affecting your running Not for: Therapy for an already-diagnosed muscle or joint injury ORTHOPEDIST Orthopedists treat issues affecting the bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments, which makes them a smart choice if you have an ongoing pain that acts up during or after a run. See an orthopedist with a sports-medicine specialization who works with athletes to prevent and manage injury. While orthopedists often perform surgery, look for one who is rehab-oriented and operates as a last resort. Best for: All types of running injuries—muscle strains and pulls, joint pains and sprains, stress fractures Not for: General health problems (fatigue, anemia, etc.) PODIATRIST Podiatrists specialize in feet. During an exam, they'll check the wear patterns of your running shoes and watch you walk and run to look for biomechanical issues that could be contributing to your injury. Sports podiatrists may recommend a shoe insert or custom-made orthotics. Best for: Foot and ankle-related problems like plantar fasciitis; chronic injuries that often result from poor foot mechanics (runner's knee, iliotibial-band syndrome) Not for: Acute nonfoot injuries PHYSICAL THERAPIST Often, physical therapists work with orthopedists to diagnose problems. They most often design rehab programs and prescribe exercises to keep you injury-free. Best for: Rehabbing known injuries, both acute and chronic Not for: General health problems (fatigue, anemia, etc.) or if you suspect you have a fracture CHIROPRACTOR Because the medical establishment hasn't always been accepting of this profession, you may be wary of chiropractic care. But many runners go to sports-trained chiropractors. Most will watch you walk or run to identify risk areas that can lead to injuries. Then they'll press on or around joints, which can alleviate pain and strain on surrounding muscles and joints. Best for: Back pain; injuries that may not be responding to other methods Not for: Traumatic injuries like fractures or torn ligaments
