Epidemiology of Lower-extremity Musculoskeletal Injuries in Runners: An Overview of Systematic Reviews

Purpose of ReviewThis overview of systematic reviews aimed to summarize the current published systematic reviews investigating the prevalence, incidence, types, and locations of lower-extremity running-related musculoskeletal injuries.Recent FindingsStudies have addressed the prevalence and incidence of running-related musculoskeletal injuries in different countries and different types of runners. However, to the best of our knowledge, there is no overview of systematic reviews on the epidemiology of lower-extremity injuries in runners.SummaryThe overall incidence of running-related musculoskeletal injuries ranged from 0.9% to 99%, and the prevalence ranged from 36% to 63.5%. Injuries were most commonly reported at or below the knee. The most common anatomical sites were the knee, followed by the ankle-foot, calf, and upper leg (hamstring, thigh, and quadriceps). The most common types of injuries were plantar fasciitis, medial stress syndrome, patellofemoral pain syndrome, Achilles tendinopathy, sprains, contractures, and ligament injuries.

Automated summary

This article provides an overview of systematic reviews on the prevalence, incidence, types, and locations of lower-extremity running-related musculoskeletal injuries. Recent studies have addressed these factors in different populations and countries. However, there is a lack of overview on the epidemiology of lower-extremity injuries in runners.