As the days get longer and the weather gets warmer, many people will begin to dust off their running shoes. While running is an excellent means of staying in shape, this exercise can also lead to some unfortunate injuries. If you suffer an injury during your next run, our team at Miccass Physical Therapy will be here to help with quality care. Our staff is well-versed in the common injuries you can get from running and will administer the physical therapy needed to help overcome them.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome
Often referred to as runner’s knee, patellofemoral pain syndrome occurs when one begins to experience pain towards the front of their patella (kneecap). Though anyone can suffer from this condition, it is most common in people who run frequently. Pain associated with this condition is usually dull at first, but repetitive stress placed on the patella will continue to aggravate the area. While the most common cause of this condition is overuse, other factors that can lead to its development may include:
- Imbalances between the muscles of your hips and knees which can cause a misalignment in the patella.
- Experiencing trauma directly to the kneecap.
- Having undergone knee operations in which your patella tendon was used as a graft.
Achilles Tendonitis
Your Achilles tendon attaches your calf muscle to the back of your leg. When this tendon becomes overused and causes pain, it is known as Achilles tendonitis. This ailment generally befalls runners who have abruptly increased the intensity or duration of their runs. When left unchecked, Achilles tendonitis will gradually weaken the tendon, leaving you susceptible to painful tears in the tissue. To reduce the risk of this occurring, physical therapy could be necessary.
Plantar Fasciitis
If you’ve recently begun experiencing heel pain as a result of running, you could be suffering from plantar fasciitis. The plantar fascia is a dense grouping of tissue that attaches the toes to the heel bone. When repeated stress, such as pounding your foot into the ground during a run, causes this tissue to become inflamed, it can lead to a stabbing pain in your heel. This pain is usually at its worst in the morning, dissipating slightly throughout the day. While you may also experience pain during your run, it tends to increase once the physical activity has stopped.
Sprained Ankles
One final common injury that can result from running is sprained ankles. The ankle joint is held together by a series of ligaments. A sprain will occur as a result of direct force being placed on the joint that causes these ligaments to extend past their normal range of motion. Running on uneven surfaces or stepping awkwardly onto curbs or potholes are some common instances that lead to this injury. You may have suffered a sprain if you have experienced the following:
- A popping sound at the time of injury.
- Ankle instability.
- Reduced range of motion.
- The ankle is tender to the touch.
- Increased pain when bearing weight on the injured foot.
- Bruising, swelling, or redness around the sprain.
Physical Therapy at Miccass
Our physical therapists will help those who have suffered a running injury get through the rehabilitation process. Physical therapy is an activity-based form of treatment that aims to promote healing from within. At the time of your first session, our team will perform a full assessment of your injury to determine your current functionality levels. Once this is completed, a comprehensive treatment regimen will be created. It will include stretches, strengthening exercises, and the use of modalities to help achieve the below benefits:
- Reduction of pain and inflammation.
- Increased flexibility and range of motion.
- Mitigated risk of injury recurrence.
- Avoidance of more invasive forms of treatment such as surgery.
Request An Appointment
Whether you are an experienced runner or someone who has just begun to take up this activity, an injury can occur at any time. If you happen to suffer one, turning to a qualified team will help resolve the issue as soon as possible. At Miccass Physical Therapy, we always look to help you achieve this goal. Request an appointment for physical therapy to get the relief you need today!
