Lower step rate is associated with a higher risk of bone stress injury
The goal of this study was to determine if running mechanics and bone mineral density (BMD) were associated with bone stress injury (BSI) in a group of NCAA Division I cross country runners. This study observed 54 healthy collegiate cross country runners over three seasons. Whole body joint motion, ground reaction forces (GRFs) and BMD measures were collected at preseason using motion capture and an instrumented treadmill, and total body densitometry scans. Runners were then followed for an MRI confirmed BSI for 12 months after the running assessment. Step rate, center of mass vertical excursion, peak vertical GRF and vertical GRF impulse were associated with BSI. After adjusting for a runner’s history of BSI and sex, a higher step rate was associated with a decreased risk of BSI. The study concluded that low step rate is an important risk factor for BSI among collegiate cross country runners and should be considered when developing comprehensive programs to mitigate BSI risk in distance runners.
Consensus Statement on Youth Distance Running
Despite the worldwide popularity of running as a sport for children, relatively little is known about its impact on injury and illness. Available studies have focused on adolescent athletes, but these findings may not be applicable to preadolescent and pubescent athletes. To date, there are no evidence or consensus-based guidelines identifying risk factors for injury and illness in youth runners, and current recommendations regarding suitable running distances for youth runners at different ages are opinion based. The International Committee Consensus Work Group convened to evaluate the current science, identify knowledge gaps, categorise risk factors for injury/illness and provide recommendations regarding training, nutrition and participation for youth runners.