Braces for Marathon Runners

Whether it's your first marathon or your hundredth, keeping your body healthy and supported throughout your training and on race day is a must.

Even though marathon running is a non-contact sport, it can be a strain on your body. The constant pounding on the pavement and the repeated impact can cause knee pain, ankle strains, plantar fasciitis or shin splints1. To help manage these common marathon injuries, you can wear supportive bracing to help you cross the finish line safely.

What to Look For in a Brace?

For long-distance running, it's important you take care of your body and wear the support you need to get you from mile one to 26.2. While we offer an array of supports, not all are recommended for running. When shopping for a brace that you want to wear for a long-distance run, look for the following:

  • Lightweight: So nothing weighs you down as you tackle 26.2 miles
  • Breathable: So you don't get hot while running
  • Low-profile: Slim so it doesn't get in the way when running
  • Reflectiveness: Reflectors are a great addition when running in dim conditions so cars see you when running
  • Compression: To help enhance circulation and ease swelling
  • Stays in Place: Silicone or straps help keep the support in place. You want to focus on running not adjusting your brace every mile.

BRACES FOR MARATHON RUNNERS

Shin Splints

DONJOY PERFORMANCE® TRIZONE® CALF SUPPORT

The DonJoy Performance® Trizone® Calf Sleeve is a hybrid design that combines compression and bracing. Featuring carbonized bamboo circular knit construction, you'll experience target, zonal compression to help manage shin pain. There are three distinct compression zones: a stability zone, compression zone, and comfort zone. The Trizone® Calf Sleeve is a low-profile performance support that can help you focus on running, not worry about shin pain.

Plantar Fasciitis

AIRCAST® AIRHEEL™ ARCH & HEEL SUPPORT

The Aircast® AirHeel™ Arch & Heel Support helps manage plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis by applying compression with each step. The Arch & Heel Support helps reduce swelling while aiding in circulation. This brace is lightweight and breathable and slips on like a sock.

Runner's Knee

DONJOY PERFORMANCE® WEBTECH™ KNEE STRAP

The DonJoy Performance® Webtech™ Knee Strap features a two-part system that helps provide comfort to the patella. The silicone strap is designed to fit with the contours of the knee and works with the compression molded back pad to evenly distribute pain-relieving pressure on the Patellar Tendon.

Ankle Strains

DONJOY PERFORMANCE® TRIZONE® ANKLE SUPPORT

The DonJoy Performance® Trizone® Ankle Sleeve is recommended for marathoners who need mild support for weak ankles, a sprained ankle, swelling/inflammation, or general ankle stability and support. The Trizone® Ankle Sleeve combines compression, warmth, and support. Low profile, the Ankle Sleeve is easy to put on and slim enough to wear during training or race day. Can wear on either the left or right and can be worn with most running shoes.

How to Help Combat Common Marathon Injuries

Here are some things you can do to help combat these common marathon injuries:

  • Stretch before and after working out (you may even want to stretch, warm up, then stretch some more before diving into training)
  • If you've experienced knee pain, consider wearing knee braces for running. The knee absorbs much of the shock from your feet hitting the pavement. A knee brace can help alleviate some of this pressure on the structures of the knee.
  • If your ankles are prone to injury, wear an ankle brace for added stability. This may help you avoid ankle rollover injuries, especially during a misplaced step or running over uneven pavement.
  • Check your shoes and ensure that they're the proper fit and not worn out.
  • Make sure you train before the marathon. Don't just jump in cold turkey!

If you encounter any pain, stop and check in with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Marathon running is an incredible accomplishment. Stay safe and healthy while you're out there!

Shop Braces and Supports for Runners

The contents of this blog were independently prepared, and are for informational purposes only. The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not necessarily indicative of the views of any other party. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors.

Sources:

  1. https://www.aafp.org/afp/2018/0415/p510.html