Keywords
Road running
Risk factors
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Abstract
Objective: To analyze the prevalence of musculoskeletal injuries in amateur runners in Imperatriz-MA, identifying associated risk factors and proposing evidence-based preventive strategies. Methods: Retrospective observational study with 263 amateur runners linked to local running groups in Imperatriz-MA. Data collection was carried out using an electronic questionnaire, addressing sociodemographic variables, characteristics of sports practice, injury history, nutritional factors, and preventive behaviors. Results: A higher prevalence of injuries was observed in the knee, leg/shin, and ankle regions, with emphasis on stress fractures and Achilles tendinitis. Factors such as less practice time, lack of professional guidance, training on hard surfaces, and low adoption of preventive measures were associated with a higher occurrence of injuries. Poorer sleep quality was also associated with a higher incidence of injuries, indicating an increased risk in runners with inadequate sleep. Conclusion: The findings highlight the need for educational strategies and preventive interventions aimed at amateur runners.
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