July 30, 2020

Sign up for the Indy 500 Mile Virtual Challenge, benefiting the 500 Festival

Foot and Ankle | OrthoIndy News

The  500 Festival, a nonprofit organization providing life-enriching events and programs that celebrate the spirit and legacy of the Indianapolis 500®, launched the  Indianapolis 500 Mile Challenge, benefiting the 500 Festival.  

This challenge is a virtual program where participants will complete 500 miles of physical activity between June and December 2020. Additionally, participants also have the option to complete 100 miles of physical activity in the Indianapolis Freedom 100 Mile Challenge. 

Due to COVID-19, the 500 Festival Miler Series, presented by OrthoIndy, canceled their 6-Miler and 10-Miler races earlier in 2020. 

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How does a virtual race work? 

Virtual running works like any other type of running, but the difference is that the entire race can be completed anywhere, on any trail at any time. All you have to do is sign up, enter a race and provide evidence that you have done it, usually this is done through a free app such as Nike Run Club. 

What are the benefits of running? 

OrthoIndy trauma surgeon and marathon-runner, Dr. Timothy Weber, shares why running may benefit you. 

“Typically, people tend to run for different reasons. It could be that you want to stay in shape, lose weight or you want to see what you are capable of in the long run,” said Dr. Weber. “Either way, running is great for your heart and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.”  

Additional running benefits: 

  • Strengthens your joints and muscles 
  • Helps build strong bones 
  • Lowers risk of developing neurological diseases 
  • Improves sleep 

Learn more about health benefits of running

What is the most common injury in running? 

The most common injury in runners is runner’s knee,  patellofemoral pain syndrome. This is the irritation of the cartilage on the underside of the patella (kneecap).  

While some people will run through the pain, it is best to take a few days of rest in order to decrease irritation. If pain persists, try to strengthen your hip and glute muscles. However, if this fails, you may need to see a specialist. 

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Why do I keep getting running injuries? 

If you keep getting injured while running, there could be a few underlying issues.  

  1. Depending on your foot type, you may have the wrong running shoes. Choosing proper footwear is one of the most important aspects when running. 
  1. You may be lacking lower body muscle, so try to do lower-body resistance training. 
  1. Your training plan may be too advanced. Try to back off your miles for a few days or alternate days when you go for a run. 
  1. Before you run, perform dynamic stretches to warm up, but avoid static stretches, as they can cause injury. Warming up before you run can help prevent injury. 
  1. You may not be fueling your body correctly. Nutrition is vital before and after a run. 

How long do running injuries take to heal? 

Depending on the injury itself, most strains and sprains can be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation. 

However, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible for foot and ankle injuries, especially if it is causing you to limp or there is extreme swelling and pain. Prompt and appropriate treatment and rehabilitation ensures the best possible recovery. 

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Schedule an appointment 

Your well-being is important to us. Click the button below or call us to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists. If your injury or condition is recent, you can walk right into one of our  OrthoIndy Urgent Care locations  for immediate care. For rehabilitation and physical therapy, no referral is needed to  see one of our physical therapists

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