Many runners are told that discomfort is a part of the package when it comes to running. Some people adopt the "no pain no gain" mentality and assume that unless you are able to push through the discomfort of running you will never improve. Yet US News reports that one some runners regard as normal pain is actually the sign of a serious running injury.

According to hospitals throughout America, muscle fatigue, soreness, and stiffness are all typical pains from running that are completely appropriate. On the other hand, there are some pains that may be the sign of a serious injury. Constant pain in a very targeted area may be a sign of a muscle tear.

Athletes can only recover from a sports injury if they first admit that they have suffered from one. Without admitting this, the athlete will probably continue to exercise and put more damaging strain on the injured area. If you are suffering from joint pain, you should recognize this as a serious situation. You will want to make sure to go to the doctor to make sure that you are not wearing down cartilage and damaging your joints because of your current exercise habits.

Athletes should look for any swelling in painful areas, or should note if the pain reduces their mobility, motion, or ability to perform weight-bearing activities. If you express concern about an injury but a coach or authority demands you to work through it, you may be able to seek compensation for compounded injury in the future.