In the next several issues I will cover some of the most frequently occurring injuries in runners. We will start with the foot and progress up the body. As always, I welcome your questions and comments. Please remember that if incorporating the treatments I outline here, the work will only be effective if the protocols are followed exactly, especially when it comes to the duration and frequency of treatment.

I hope you enjoyed the last article, and those of you who put it to practice have seen results. In this issue I will cover treatments for lower extremities, moving finally to the calf.

Hamstring injuries can be extremely frustrating to the runner. Small tears that seem insignificant can lead to major problems if left untreated. Prevention is usually the best cure. Therefore, it is important that runners maintain good flexibility. A stretching program is very important. As a former coach and runner, I prefer a ballistic type of stretching which mimics the range of motion that occurs during the activity. Certain types of running drills can be an excellent form of stretching. Muscles should be thoroughly warmed before beginning any kind of stretching program.