My doctor says I pronate. What does this have to do with running injuries?

Ideally, your foot comfortably accepts the impact of your weight while running. If you pronate, the arch flattens, and the muscles supporting the arch can become strained. Over time, these muscles can actually begin to develop small tears where they attach on the shinbones. Tibial stress syndrome can result. This injury, commonly thought of as shin splints, can be very painful.

What can you do to prevent this type of injury? Certain running shoes may help correct your foot posture. You may also want to talk to your doctor about orthotics, or shoe inserts. By supporting the foot against pronation, orthotics may help prevent overuse injuries. Ask your doctor what he or she recommends in your case.