As warmer weather starts to arrive, you may be thinking about taking up running. If you are getting back into running or are starting for the first time, it is essential to remember that running injuries can occur if you aren’t careful. Our team at Free Body Physical Therapy will help by working with you to prevent or manage running injuries through our personalized treatment plans. Continue reading to learn more about what physical therapy treatment can do for running injuries. 

Common Running Injuries

Running is a fantastic way to break a sweat and keep your heart healthy, but it can also be taxing on your body. Running is a repetitive exercise that can lead to pain and injury in certain areas. Some of the most common running injuries may include:

  • Plantar Fasciitis.
  • Runner’s Knee.
  • Stress Fractures.
  • Ankle Sprains.
  • Shin Splints.
  • Back Pain.
  • Achilles Tendonitis.

Running injuries are, unfortunately, all too common. Even if you are experienced in this activity, you may do things that put you at risk for injury. Being aware of these risks will contribute to effectively managing these injuries. Some of the most common causes of running injuries are as follows:

  • Overloading – Running is an extremely repetitive action, and this can cause significant stress on your lower extremities. Running on softer surfaces can help minimize your risk. Avoid running on uneven surfaces if possible. 
  • Biomechanical Factors – Your running style can affect your injury risk and efficiency. Our team can help coach your technique to improve the stress you may be putting on your body. 
  • Recovery – It is crucial to give yourself adequate rest time so that your body can fully recover. Inadequate recovery time can lead to tissue damage. 
  • Inappropriate Footwear – You need to be wearing shoes that are appropriate for your training. We recommend changing your footwear when there is significant wear or breakdown of the shoe. Wearing supportive shoes could make all the difference. 

What Is Physical Therapy?

Physical therapy uses strengthening and stretching exercises to promote healing in your body. Our team does not believe in a one size fits all approach to treatment. During your first appointment, we will evaluate the severity of your running injury. Once we achieve a better understanding of your condition and your capabilities, we will determine the best course of action. We will create an exercise program that offers the most benefits for your body. 

Physical Therapy for Running Injuries

If you love running, few things can be more devastating than having to spend time rehabbing your running injury. We understand that you want to get back to your activities as soon as possible. Along with our exercise programs, we also provide education to our patients to help them prevent these injuries from reoccurring. Our team always recommends that you warm-up before going for a run and that you wear proper-fitting shoes that support your ankles and arches. If you find yourself in pain after your run, it may be time to schedule a physical therapy appointment. Physical therapy can help prevent discomfort from becoming a full-blown running injury. If you experience a running injury, physical therapy can effectively rehab it and potentially get you back to doing what you love. We utilize stretches and strengthening exercises to promote healing. There are many benefits for treating your injury with physical therapy, including some of the following:

  • Regaining strength.
  • Preventing future injuries.
  • Addressing and eliminating pain without surgery.
  • Increased flexibility and range of motion. 
  • Reduced inflammation. 

Contact Us

Whether you’re an avid runner or someone just starting, injuries can occur at any time. If you experience this, our qualified team can help you. At Free Body Physical Therapy, our team is dedicated to treating you and helping you achieve your fitness goals. Contact us today to start your physical therapy journey!