The Relation Between Running Patterns and Overuse Injuries in Runners
The Relation Between Running Patterns and Overuse Injuries in Runners
Running patterns are thought to have a major influence on the development of Running Related
 Injuries (RRI), however to studies have documented such relationship. Thus, the aim of the
 study is to investigate the association between running patterns and overuse injuries in
 runners.
Running patterns are thought to have a major influence on the development of Running Related
 Injuries (RRI).

 Worldwide, running is a sport practiced by many individuals to improve cardio-respiratory
 function, health and well-being. Although running positively contributes to health, there is
 also a risk of running related injuries (RRI). At best, the consequence of RRI´s is a
 periodic absence from physical activity, with the athlete returning to sport within weeks. In
 the worst case, the injury is a chronic painful condition, causing a sedentary lifestyle
 without physical activity. This is undesirable since physical inactivity increases the risk
 of lifestyle diseases and death.

 In Denmark it is estimated that 4.500 deaths each year can be attributed directly to
 inactivity. Furthermore, inactivity leads to reduced quality of life compared to active
 persons. To avoid people getting a sedentary lifestyle prevention of RRI are necessary.

 To define a prevention strategy, one must have knowledge about risk factors and causation.
 Many risk factors have been proposed. Among these, running patterns and foot type are thought
 to play a major role in the development of RRI. However, very few firm conclusions can be
 made based on the existing literature, often because of methodical problems. Consequently, it
 is suggested to design large scale prospective studies controlling for multiple variables.
 Furthermore, studies should differentiate between novice, elite and extreme runners. Thus,
 the study design in this project will take these suggestions into account.

 The aim of the study is to investigate the association between running patterns and overuse
 injuries in runners.
Inclusion Criteria:

 -  between 18 and 65 years old

 -  has a GPS-watch that can measure training data (Garmin Forerunner 205,305 or 405)

 -  has registered their training (if they have run) for a period of at least three months
 before the inclusion in the trial

 -  has an e-mail address

 Exclusion Criteria:

 -  does not wish to keep a training diary

 -  has not registered training data in the follow-up period

 -  has had an injury in the leg within the last three months before baseline

 -  active with another tough sports, cf. American College of Sports Medicine

 -  psychic condition that does not allow participation

 -  cannot read or understand Danish