prevention. Abide by these, and you'll be more likely to enjoy a long and healthy running life.1. Know Your LimitsIt's easy to get injured; anyone can do it. Just run too much. "I firmly believe that every runner has an injury threshold," says physical

Q I recently turned my ankle and suffered a pulled ligament as a result. After 10 days in a cast and a week in an ankle support, I’m now able to run again. But I’m concerned about long-term weakness. Is there anything I can do to strengthen

Q: I recently turned my ankle and suffered a pulled ligament as a result. After 10 days in a cast and a week in an ankle support, I’m now able to run again. But I’m concerned about long-term weakness. Is there anything I can do to strengthen

. (This may not need to be worn forever, as the body readjusts itself very well after 8-12 weeks.)However, whatever your problem, a long-term injury-management plan is essential to your rehabilitation. Identifying possible problem areas before they develop

Q I’ve been running for over 20 years now, but have noticed that I’ve become much more susceptible to blisters. I don’t think I’m doing anything differently, so could my age have something to do with my sore feet?A This is a problem

Q If I try to run any further than a mile, my left calf tightens up and cramps very quickly. It’s so painful I simply have to stop. As you can imagine, I’m at my wit’s end, what’s wrong?A Pain in the calves can be caused by many different

, tenderness at the base of the heel that increases with movement and even swelling.Plantar fasciitis, on the other hand, is a condition affecting the plantar fascia, a long fibrous structure that runs from the heel towards the ball of the foot. Sufferers

Q While gardening, I managed to get a hernia in my groin. I’ve been told it could be up to nine months before I can start running again. Will I really be out for this long?A It’s difficult to say without the opportunity to assess your individual

of the femur.Over the long term, these problems will tend to increase patello-femoral wear, and can lead to further injury without proper treatment. Seek the advice of a chartered physiotherapist. They can tell you what stretches and exercises may be required

Q I have only just been bitten by the running bug, and although I feel no pain while running, the next day I get a niggling discomfort on the outside of my left hip. It doesn’t hurt when I touch it or when I’m sitting down, but I’m aware of it when