Injury prevention strategies in runners of different levels and distances
A systematic review
Abstract
Objective: To analyze the effects of different training interventions for the prevention of injuries in runners of
different levels.
Materials and method: A systematic review without meta-analysis was conducted. A literature search limited
to controlled clinical studies, non-randomized controlled studies, and randomized controlled studies conducted on runners of all levels and published from January 2002 to January 2022 was performed. We analyzed the effects of training for injury prevention, compared with normal training or non-intervention, and its effectiveness on the incidence of injuries in this population.
Results: We included 10 articles (N=7960 runners) for full reading and data analysis. Multiple interventions
were applied for the prevention of injuries in runners, with contradictory findings regarding the effectiveness in reducing race-related injuries (in total, 3134). The most effective training methods were professionally-directed and monitored programs, focused on strengthening foot muscles; multicomponent programs; and functional training with neuromuscular re-education of the dynamic valgus knee and running re-training. The programs that did not show a significant impact on reducing race-related injuries were online and self-regulated programs.
Conclusion: We cannot confirm that one strategy is more effective than another in reducing the incidence of
injuries in runners. Individualized programs and multicomponent programs focused on neuromuscular aspects and proper running technique, regularly monitored by professionals, may be considered effective; however, the number of reliable studies is limited. Further research is needed on this field.
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