Whether you prefer to run on city streets, country roads or hilly trails, there is always a chance that you could injure yourself while running. It’s not a pleasant thought but there’s no use pretending the risks aren’t there. An errant gutter, pothole or rock can be enough to send even the best runners tumbling. If you’re in an isolated spot or are far enough away from help, you need to be able to address your own injuries before you can reach out for aid from others. We also know that runners like to travel light. So what should be in a runners first aid kit?

There are three common injuries that runners can suffer from. Remember also, that it may not be you that is injured – your running partner may hurt themselves, and you’ll be the one they look to for help.

Sprains, breaks, scrapes and cuts

If you fall, you may sprain and ankle or worse, break a bone. These falls are likely going to include scrapes to the skin, too. Keep some sterile wipes and light gauze for the scrapes, and a stretchy bandage to stabilise any sprains. Take the weight off it you can. Specialised chemical packs will chill instantly upon activation, and these can be applied to the inflamed area until you can reach aid.

Heat exhaustion and heat stroke

Any runners first aid kit is complemented by keeping water and electrolyte gels to hand. It doesn’t take long for the body to become dehydrated. Heat exhaustion is a combination of dehydration, loss of salts and an increase in body temperature. Heat stroke is a dangerous increase in body temperature, and they body may not be able to cool down on its own. Get into the shade, drink water slowly, take the electrolytes and call for help.

Heart problems

Because running is an egalitarian sport, anyone can participate. New runners, older runners and those with existing conditions may all be vulnerable to a suspected heart attack. If a runner falls suddenly, loses consciousness or start breathing, the tool you will need in your runners first aid kit is a mobile phone and familiarity with CPR. Use an automated defibrillation kit if available (they are designed for people who’ve never used them before). Take a simple first aid class to give you the confidence to deal with a real-life situation.

About Enertor Advanced Technology Insoles –   Enertor insoles are designed to prevent a number of common running injuries and provide more comfort. Designed by leading podiatrists to reduce your risk of injury, the unique design features support your foot throughout training. Enertor insoles are enhanced by D3O impact protection technology, which means they can provide more shock absorption than any other insole. Our expertise, combined with the patented D3O shock absorption technology, enables Enertor to deliver the most advanced injury prevention insoles on the market today.

Enertor insoles are available to buy from our online shop.

Whilst Enertor has over 18 years Orthotics experience, our blog content is provided for informational purposes only and it is not a substitute for your own doctor’s medical advice. Enertor advises anyone with an injury to seek their own medical advice – and do not make any health or medical related decisions based solely on information found on this site.

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