Physiotherapy for Running Injuries

When it comes to common types of sports injuries, problems associated with running ranks right near the top. It’s estimated that 8 out of 10 runners have experienced some sort of injury or another while participating in the sport. The most common are related to aches, pains, inflammation, sprains, overuse, and musculoskeletal issues. One of the main reasons for this is because every time the foot of a runner hits the ground it creates a force equivalent to approximately three times their body weight. Since each person possesses unique biomechanics and they have their own nutritional programs, running often becomes more of a science when you factor in other specifics such as hydration, terrain, and shoes etc.

Common Running Injuries
Some of the more common running injuries include back pain, hip flexors, tight muscles, nerve and joint irritation, groin pain, bursitis, pelvic pain, shin splints, knee problems, cartilage, muscle, and ligament tears, Achilles issues, Plantar Fasciitis, Sesamoiditis, and Metarsalgia. Some of these problems can simply be caused from running on hard ground to inappropriate footwear. But no matter what type of injury you’ve suffered while running and how it was caused we can always help treat it at Spectrum Physiotherapy and have you back in action as soon as possible.

Physiotherapy for Running Injuries
Physiotherapy is seen as an effective way of treating the running-injury symptoms since it gets to the source of the issue and can help reduce the chances of it recurring. We thoroughly assess the biomechanics of your body to help diagnose the underlying root of the injury. Once we’ve determined exactly what the problem is and how it was caused, we can create a unique, personalized treatment program to help you heal. If the problem is due to abnormal foot biomechanics then you may be recommended to use custom-made insoles (orthoses) to help correct the issue.

If you’re suffering from joint and/or soft tissue injuries, then manual therapy is often the best type of treatment as it can reduce both muscle tension and scar tissue. This will help restore the flexibility and strength to the affected areas as well as help improve the joint control and muscle balance. Rehabilitation often work wonders for running injuries and our experienced team of physiotherapists will be able to advise you when your body is ready to return to its normal running routine. We will also be able to help prevent any further running-related injuries. A complete biomechanical diagnosis of your body can help detect any potential areas for problems.

Your mobility, posture, tissue and muscle flexibility, and joint position will be fully assessed along with your gait and core control. After this assessment, we can design a program which will address any issues for potential running-related injuries. Remember, it’s recommended that you don’t increase your running workload, intensity, and distance at a dramatic pace. It’s better to increase it gradually so the body can build up its strength and endurance. Your running technique and footwear are also important factors to staying healthy and injury-free.

At Spectrum Physiotherapy, we recommend a proper warm up and cool down routine after running and to consult a medical professional as soon as you believe there’s something wrong. If pain or injury is ignored it may become more serious over time. If you’re experiencing discomfort before, during or after your running routine please feel free to contact us at your convenience for a full assessment and treatment program via physiotherapy.