Chiropractor in Santa Monica Specializes in Preventing Running Injuries

Dr. Robert Rainey, a chiropractor in Santa Monica, says most running injuries can be easily prevented. You just have to make sure you take care of your body before, during, and after you run. Through sensible conditioning and the right equipment, you can avoid common running injuries and stay safe, healthy, and happy, says Dr. Rainey, your chiropractor in Santa Monica.

Conditioning

Chiropractor in Santa Monica Dr. Rainey recommends planning a running program, preparing your body for vigorous workouts, and knowing your limits before you ever lace up your running shoes. Think before you run. Remember to:

• Warm-up for five minutes before your run to slightly raise your body temperature
• Stretch slowly and thoroughly both before and after your run
• In hot weather, run early in the morning or during the evening to avoid heat exhaustion
• Don’t overdo it! Let your body rest between training sessions
• Drink ten to fifteen ounces of water fifteen minutes before your run, every twenty minutes during your run, and continue to drink water after your run to avoid dehydration

Listen to your chiropractor in Santa Monica! As an avid runner himself,
Dr. Rainey follows these guidelines to prevent injury so he can continue to run and stay healthy.

Equipment

The right footwear and apparel keeps you safe and in prime running condition. Your chiropractor in Santa Monica advises:

• Wear running shoes that fit your feet properly, have excellent shock absorption, and provide ample cushioning and stability
• Buy high quality or even custom fit running shoes. If you are local to Los Angeles (Santa Monica area) we recommend Phidippides Encino http://www.phidippidesencino.com/ for great running shoes
• Replace your running shoes every nine to twelve months or every 250 to 500 miles because shoes lose a significant amount of cushioning and shock absorption
• Dress in layers to prevent excessive sweating: The inner layer should be a polypropylene or thermax material to remove perspiration from the skin, the middle layer should be cotton to insulate and absorb moisture, and the outer layer should be nylon to protect yourself from moisture and wind
• Wear sunglasses to protect against the negative effects of UVA rays
• Wear sunscreen if you can’t run in the shade, and wear a hat to protect the top of your head and your face from the sun

Running Cramps

As a chiropractor in Santa Monica, Dr. Rainey often gets asked about ways to avoid running cramps. Here are a few foolproof techniques:

• Stretch before and after your run
• Make sure you’re well hydrated before your run and during your run
• Drink water or sports drinks at regular intervals during your run, especially before you get thirsty
• Take full breaths when you run so that you completely exhale and completely inhale every breath

Your chiropractor in Santa Monica suggests the following methods to eliminate cramps that won’t disappear on their own:

• Slow your pace or stop running altogether
• Stretch the muscle and hold it until the pain subsides
• Massage the muscle and/or apply heat to the muscle that is cramping

Prevent Running Injuries
As a leading chiropractor in Santa Monica, Dr. Rainey is your pain prevention advocate. If you do hurt yourself while running, do not wait and wonder if your pain will “magically” go away. See Dr. Rainey, your chiropractor in Santa Monica, to treat your pain and get personalized advice on how your running style may be causing your running injuries.