Which injury is commonly associated with repeated trauma in running athletes?

The injury most commonly associated with repeated trauma in running athletes is plantar fasciitis. This condition occurs due to inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot, connecting the heel bone to the toes. It is frequently seen in runners because of the high-impact nature of the sport, which can lead to microtrauma in the fascia, especially if the athlete has inadequate footwear, poor running technique, or insufficient lower limb strength and flexibility.

Running involves repetitive stress on the feet and lower limbs, which can exacerbate this condition over time. The characteristic pain associated with plantar fasciitis is often felt in the heel or arch of the foot and can be particularly noticeable after periods of inactivity, such as in the morning or after sitting for a long time.

In contrast, while Achilles tendonitis and shin splints are also common injuries among runners, they have distinct mechanisms. Achilles tendonitis arises from overuse stressing the Achilles tendon, manifesting as pain along the back of the heel. Shin splints, on the other hand, refer to pain along the shin bone (tibia) due to inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue. Hamstring strains typically result from an acute injury