Runners: 5 Reasons Why You Should Be Seeing An Acupuncturist

Feb 9

New Yorkers LOVE To Run

We run to catch the bus. Run to a meeting. Many of us run for fun and exercise. I hear so many people talk about how running helps to declutter their minds. Whether you’re running on a treadmill, for your mental health or training for an upcoming race —running injuries are something to be mindful of.

According to WebMD, the most common running injuries are: runner’s knee, achilles tendonitis, hamstring issues, plantar fasciitis, shin splints, illiotibial band syndrome (ITB syndrome), ankle sprains, muscle pulls, blisters and stress fractures. The one thing runners hate to hear when it comes to these injuries is that they have to stop running. Runners, I know you all cannot stand it when you hear this! I’m not here to take running away from you in this blog post because Chinese Medicine can offer you a lot in terms of faster recovery and prevention.

Runners, Here Are 5 Reasons You Should Be Seeing An Acupuncturist

Acupuncture improves circulation which will help with muscle recovery. Studies using Color Doppler Imaging have shown increased circulation when acupuncture is used locally but also peripherally. This means faster healing and recovery.
Cupping therapy helps to break up fascia and relax tight muscles. This is one of my favorite therapies for ITB syndrome, knee pain that stems from ITB syndrome, tight quads and calf muscles. Think of a deep tissue massage or foam rolling x10! Cupping can also be used for tight or achy back and to strengthen the lungs. We know better breathing means better running!
Acupuncture strengthens your immunity. If you’re training extra hard for a race it means you’re asking your body to push harder. This can make your body more susceptible to getting sick, especially if you’re running outdoors and/or in cold weather. No one wants to have to sit out of the race that you’ve trained hard for. Regular visits during rigorous training times are important for prevention from catching a cold and for injuries!
Acupuncture helps you sleep and rest more effectively. Sleep is when the body does its work to repair and recover. Have you ever noticed how great a run feels after a good night’s sleep?
Herbal treatments unlike medicines are a more natural option. Many licensed acupuncturists in NY state are also trained herbalists (we get certified by NCCAOM/national boards). Chinese herbal formulas could be used during the initial signs of catching a cold/flu, accelerating healing of an injury or post surgical situation. Topical herbal treatments are available as well for various types of injuries which can also help to reduce pain and discomfort while you heal. ( See a list of topical products below).

I’ve Had My Share Of Running Injuries Too

Some of the running injuries I’ve experienced myself are shin splints, hip pain, plantar fasciitis, hamstring pulls, and ITB syndrome which have been so successfully and dare I say easily treated with Chinese Medicine. Running injuries are commonly seen in my clinic across the board and though you may have to take temporary rest in order to get better, the goal is to get you back in the race! Some running injuries like acute muscle strains take 1-3 session to resolve while chronic injuries can vary depending on the runner, their constitution, lifestyle and condition. Chinese Medicine treats the individual which means your running injury is not only different from the next person but you and your body are unique too. When it comes to recovering faster - like every New Yorker wants, you also have to be patient with your body and understand that an injury can take time to heal. Symptoms arise because the body is telling you to slow down and pay attention to it. Natural treatments like acupuncture are a great option as there are no harmful side effects.

Please reach out if you’d like to make acupuncture a part of your running routine.

By Emily Grace Siy, L.Ac.

*The links to products below will redirect you to my Kamwo Affiliate Store. Please be advised that it is always recommended to use such products under the supervision of a Licensed Acupuncturist and/or Certified Herbalist. Please make an appointment with me here if you’d like to discuss this further.