Why are female runners more at risk? 

   Running is an extremely popular form of exercise for many individuals. Many people choose running because it has minimal equipment requirements, it can be done year round outdoors (almost year round in the northeast),  it is excellent for cardiovascular fitness, and some runners claim they get a "runner's high" while doing it. Even though it is a great way to exercise, it is not a great way to exercise for everyone. Anyone who runs regularly is at risk of overuse or stress injuries. Women in particular are at a greater risk because of anatomical differences compared to men.

     Anatomically speaking, women have a wider pelvis then men. This difference is significant because it changes the angle between the hip and pelvis which affects the position the knee and foot can be in when the foot impacts the ground while running. Excessive inward angling of the knee when running causes increased stress on the medial (inner) knee, outer hip, and inner ankle/foot. All of these areas are susceptible to stress or overuse injuries.

     A wider pelvis also increases the work that the outer hip muscles (Gluteus Medius and Tensor Fascia Lata) have to do to control the position of the knee at midstance phase of running. These muscles are prone to fatigue during running especially if they are already weak from poor training techniques.    

     It is recommended that avid runners also participate in a strengthening program to avoid overuse and fatigue type injuries of the muscles and joints of the lower extremity.