Ask Dr. Dot

Dot Richardson, a member of the U.S. Olympic softball team and an orthopedic surgeon. Gerard Rancinan

I run 18 miles a week, but I've heard that running too much can cause joint injuries. Should I cut back?
Tonia Rosenberger, Blooming Glen, PA.

Studies have shown that weight-bearing activities like running increase stress on the joints. That's why runners are often encouraged to consider cross-training -- supplementing their routine with activities such as swimming, cycling or skating, that are easier on the joints. However, if you don't feel any joint pain and you wear well-cushioned shoes and run on soft, level surfaces, then by all means continue to do what you love. But to keep doing it, try cross-training. Not only will it help cut down on repetitive-stress injuries, but it will also decrease the boredom factor in your workouts.

After playing softball for 12 years, I still can't dive for a ball. Any tips?
Erin Sherwood, Forestville, N.Y.

For competitive athletes diving is often instinctive, and you can still hone that instinct. Here's a good drill: Kneel on a soft surface -- workout mats or soft grass -- and have someone toss a ball to your left or right, far enough away so that you have to fully extend your body and arm to catch it. Once you're comfortable moving to both sides, try the drill standing up, using elbow and knee pads. Practice on your knees for as long as it takes, but if you're still not confident diving, don't do it. Attempting a tricky move fearfully can result in injury.

I get so mad when I make mistakes in a game. How can I control this?
Amantha Inscoe, Grayson, GA.

Some stress is good, because it helps you perform in pressure situations. But too much can hurt performance, so it's important to try to control your emotions. I've found that I play my best if I focus on the fundamentals of what I need to do, rather than on the outcome of the event. Even when I remember the most magical moments in my career, I think I could have done better. Instead of getting angry, be realistic -- and never stop doing your best.

I had a synovial cyst removed from my knee. Will it come back?
J. Cameron, Draper, Utah

A synovial cyst (a sac filled with synovial fluid, which helps lubricate joints) may develop in the back of the knee as a result of trauma or repetitive irritation. But an orthopedist may suggest an MRI to determine whether there's an injury inside the knee joint. If the MRI is suspicious, the doctor may then recommend arthroscopic surgery to remove any foreign bodies. And, yes, since the cause of these cysts is unknown, it could come back.

 
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