Managing overuse injuries: a systematic approach.

Cumulative, repetitive microtrauma can cause tissue damage that leads to overuse injuries, which constitute a large share of sports-related disorders. The authors explain their five-step approach to treating overuse injuries: establishing a pathoanatomic diagnosis, controlling inflammation, promoting healing, increasing fitness, and controlling tissue abuse. The case of a 28-year-old male runner with heel pain demonstrates their management of overuse injuries.

Special considerations for the female runner.

There are a number of physiologic and anatomic differences between males and females which affect performance and the rate of injury. In addition, there are several disorders which occur with some frequency in female runners - eating disorders and amenorrhea, which warrant review. Most pregnant runners should be encouraged to remain active, with appropriate medical supervision. Providing good medical care for female runners requires a working knowledge of their unique features.