How Physiotherapists Help Manage Running Injuries
by Spencer Davis
Following the 2024 City to Bay in Adelaide, it is a great time to share how Physiotherapists can help runners with their injuries and running journey!
Running is one of the most accessible and rewarding forms of exercise, but it also comes with its fair share of injuries. Whether you’re training for a marathon or just enjoying a morning jog, running injuries can be a significant setback.
Physiotherapists play a crucial role in helping runners recover and get back on their feet. Here’s how they can assist in managing running injuries, making your path to recovery smoother and more effective.
Understanding Running Injuries
Running injuries often stem from a mix of overuse, poor technique, or inadequate preparation. Common issues include shin splints, runner’s knee, and ITB syndrome.
These injuries can be frustrating and they can limit you from achieving you goals. But not on our watch!
At PhysioWest, our physiotherapists are passionate about helping you overcome your challenges and achieve your goals.
The Initial Assessment
When you visit a physiotherapist with a running injury, they will first complete a comprehensive assessment. This will involve discussing and analysing your running habits, recent changes in your routine, and any specific pain or discomfort you’re experiencing. The physiotherapist will likely observe your running form, look at your footwear, and assess your overall biomechanics.
This thorough evaluation helps in pinpointing the root cause of the injury.
Creating a Personalised Treatment Plan
Based on the assessment, your physiotherapist will develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan is designed to address not just the injury itself but also any underlying issues contributing to it. The short-term goal is to relieve pain and restore function so that you can get back to running. The long term goal is to prevent future injuries throughout your running journey.
Here’s what might be included:
Pain Management: Initially, the focus is on reducing pain. This might involve techniques like massage, joint mobilisation, and dry needling.
Rest and Recovery: Sometimes, the best way to heal is to give your body a break. Your physiotherapist will recommend the appropriate amount of rest and may suggest low-impact alternatives to keep you active without straining the injured area.
Rehabilitation Exercises: Once the acute pain decreases, targeted exercises become crucial. These exercises help strengthen the muscles and tissues around the injury. For example, if you’re dealing with shin splints, your physiotherapist might prescribe calf stretches and strengthening exercises to support your lower legs.
Improving Running Form: Poor running technique can contribute to injuries. Your physiotherapist can analyse your gait and help you adjust your running style. This might include changes in your posture, stride length, or foot strike to reduce strain on your body.
Footwear Advice: The right shoes can make a big difference in preventing and managing running injuries. Your physiotherapist might suggest specific types of footwear or orthotics based on your foot structure and running style. Check out our blog on how to choose the right running shoes HERE!
Education and Prevention
An essential part of physiotherapy is education. Your physiotherapist will teach you about the importance of warming up, cooling down, and incorporating strength and flexibility exercises into your routine. They can work with you to develop a warm up and cool down routine that’s suited to your running style and your goals. They might also provide guidance on gradually increasing your running distance or intensity to avoid overuse injuries.
Ongoing Support and Monitoring
Recovery from a running injury isn’t just about one-off treatment; it’s an ongoing process.
Your physiotherapist will monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. Regular follow-up appointments ensure that you’re on track and help address any new issues that might arise. This can help make sure that you are staying on track with your running health, whilst pushing the boundaries in your running journey! Hello PB’s!
The Role of Multidisciplinary Care
In some cases, managing a running injury may involve a team approach. Your physiotherapist might collaborate with other healthcare professionals such as an exercise physiologist, remedial massage therapist or podiatrist to provide comprehensive care. This holistic approach can enhance your recovery and overall performance.
When to See a Physiotherapist
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, discomfort, or any changes in your running ability, it’s time to consult a physiotherapist.
Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major setbacks. Even if you’re not currently injured but want to improve your running form or prevent injuries, a physiotherapist can offer valuable advice and strategies.
(Your strava will thank you)
If you are on a running journey and are looking for some help from a physiotherapist, look no further! All of our physiotherapists are highly skilled and able to assist with your injury or performance. Click the link below or give us a call on 8352 3582 to book in now!
Thanks PhysioWest fam!