If you've taken up distance running during the last couple of years, you may find that your endurance has significantly increased -- but at a cost to your ankles, knees, and other joints. High-impact sports like running can put a lot of strain on your joints without proper support, and even quality running shoes may not have the extra cushioning you need for double-digit mile runs. Read on to learn more about some of your options if you're unhappy with the way distance running is making your joints feel.

Custom orthotics

Those who have ever tried on used shoes can vouch for the fact that everyone's wear pattern is slightly different -- and this can mean that even an expensive, high-quality running shoe may not be providing all the necessary support in the places you need it. By having orthotics custom-fitted to your feet and placed in each of the shoes you use for running and daily wear, you'll ensure your joints have all the support you need without requiring you to invest in pricey shoes or rely on anti-inflammatory medication to run without pain.

Most of these custom orthotics are also versatile enough to fit in just about any style of running shoe, allowing you to switch effortlessly between trainers and break in new shoes without putting any extra wear and tear on your lower body joints. 

Personal coaching

If your running experience has been largely self-taught, your joint damage may be due to the use of improper running form. Even just a slight difference in the angle at which your feet hit the ground or the alignment between your hips, knees, ankles, and the ground can affect the impact on each of these joints, and running crookedly could damage tendons and ligaments or even wear away at the protective cartilage in your major joints. 

By working with a personal running coach, you'll be able to go back to the basics of good running form, ensuring that you're training and competing in a way that preserves the health and safety of each of your joints. 

Chiropractic treatment

Running with poor form can impact more than just your lower body, and over time your spine and other upper-body joints could gradually lose alignment. Seeking a chiropractic adjustment after you've begun running with proper form (and utilizing orthotics) can ensure that you're in the best shape possible to begin training in a joint-protective way. 

For more information, contact companies like Citrus Chiropractic Group.