If you are a professional runner, you may hurt your calves at one point or another. Regular running may put excessive pressure on your lower legs or calves, causing overuse injuries. In some cases, runners may fall during running, which may also cause lower leg problems. Other causes of calf injuries during running may include running on an uneven surface or a direct blow to any obstacle on the running track. Wearing calf support braces or sleeves helps you prevent the chances of overuse injuries.
Is running bad for legs or calves?
Generally, running is not bad for your calves or legs when you run in proper form. It is considered that regular running helps in muscle strengthening in your legs or calves. As well as this, it helps improve cardiovascular health and helps promote weight loss. However, when not done accurately, running may cause strain or other injuries in your lower legs. The common calf or leg injuries found in runners may include Achilles tendinitis, stress fracture, shin splints, and sprains.
The common causes contributing to lower leg or calf injuries may include improper footwear, overusing your legs, poor running form, or inadequate stretching. Pain is the basic symptom of leg or calf injuries. However, you may also feel other symptoms or discomforts, depending on the nature of the injury. Whenever you feel pain or other discomforts, you must halt your running and consult your GP to manage pain.
How do calf braces help with running?
Calf braces can help runners in many ways. For example, they provide your calves with needed compression. Thus, they improve blood circulation to reduce pain swelling and other discomforts. They also keep your muscles active and warm, helping you perform well without any injury. They also provide continuous support and protection, helping avoid overuse injuries.
How to choose the best calf braces or sleeves?
If you are recommended to wear calf sleeves during running, you must wear them. However, you should take care of a few things, including the right compression, size, and duration of wearing. If you are not sure about choosing the best one, ask your sports professionals or GP to choose the right product accordingly.