Physical Therapist Nate Koch reviews and grades several treatment options for common overuse injuries.

Overuse injuries have been rampant in triathlon since its inception and will continue to do so long into the future. One study in 2003 reported that overuse injuries accounted for 68 percent of preseason and 78 percent of competition season injuries. The term overuse injury can encompass just about any injury in the sport that does not involve a collision. Some examples of overuse injuries are Achilles tendinosis/tendinopathy, plantar fasciosis, anterior knee pain, ITB syndrome and sciatica. The medical terminology that describes the overuse injury and available treatments can be overwhelming.

Recognizing that all injuries and potential treatments cannot be addressed in one article, the most common treatment options for overuse injuries are highlighted below.

Eccentric Exercise
Augmented Soft-Tissue Mobilization (ASTYM)
Graston Technique
Platelet-rich plasma injections (PRP)
Iontophoresis (IONTO)
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Cortisone Injections

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