Running Injury Treatment East St. Louis, IL

Running Injury East St. Louis, IL. Running is a common and gratifying activity, but getting in shape and chasing that “runner’s high” carries the chance of injury. Whether you’re an veteran marathoner, a weekend jogger, or working on weight loss, running injuries can interrupt your routine and obstruct your progress. Getting the effective treatment for these running injuries in East St. Louis, IL is crucial for a quick recovery and stopping long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our East St. Louis, IL physical therapists focus in treating running injuries with personalized care and scientifically supported techniques. Our experienced physical therapists are committed to helping you get back to the activities you love, ensuring a risk-free and long-term return to running. Contact the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to get started. You may also visit any one of our locations for a free injury screening.

You can also explore our Beginner Running Program Tips and Beginner’s Guide to Running for how to get the benefits of running safely.

Common Running Injuries and How East St. Louis, IL Physical Therapists Treat Them

Understanding typical running injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention. Among the prevalent running injuries in East St. Louis, IL, are:

Shin Splints

Description: Shin splints, also referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome, are defined by pain along the shinbone (tibia) due to inflammation of the hard and soft tissue around it.

Causes: Shin splints are primarily caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone. Factors contributing to this stress include abrupt increases in training intensity, exercising on solid or bumpy grounds, improper footwear, and having low arches or overly firm foot structure.

Symptoms: Tenderness, aching, or pain along the inner side of the tibia, slight swelling in the lower leg, and discomfort that eases with rest but can return with physical activity.

Treatment: Treatment aims at alleviating pain and inflammation and stopping recurrence. Strategies include rest, ice, compression, elevation (the R.I.C.E. method), and physical therapy with exercises that improve strength, mobility, and flexibility.

Runner’s Knee

Description: Runner’s knee, or patellofemoral pain syndrome, is characterized by pain around the kneecap due to improper alignment or overuse.

Causes: Weak or imbalanced thigh muscles, improper running form, overuse, and activities that exert pressure on the knee joint, such as excessive running, jumping, or squatting. Other contributing factors include muscle tightness in the hamstrings and calves, as well as imbalances in soft tissue.

Symptoms: Pain around or behind the kneecap, most apparent when bending the knee, climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods. The pain may increase with activity and ease with rest. You might experience discomfort during physical activities or even while resting.

Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, strengthening and stretching exercises, and physical therapy to correct alignment and muscle balance. Your East St. Louis, IL physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to support the kneecap and alleviate pain. This method contributes to reducing pain and providing additional support.

Achilles Tendonitis

Description: Achilles tendonitis is the inflammation of the Achilles tendon, the large tendon at the back of the ankle.

Causes: Overuse from activities that involve repetitive stress on the tendon, abruptly ramping up your workout intensity, calf muscle tightness, wearing the wrong shoes, and jogging on irregular terrain.

Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, notably upon waking or after periods of inactivity, swelling, and limited range of motion in the ankle. You may notice discomfort that intensifies during physical activity.

Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, stretching and strengthening exercises, and physical therapy. Your East St. Louis, IL physical therapist may also recommend eccentric loading exercises to enhance tendon strength. This method assists in promoting healing and preventing recurrence.

Plantar Fasciitis

Description: Plantar fasciitis involves inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs across the bottom of the foot.

Causes: Overuse from activities that involve repetitive stress on the feet, improper footwear, having high or flat arches, or tight calf muscles, or abruptly ramping up your workout intensity.

Symptoms: Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly noticeable with the first steps after waking or after periods of inactivity, tenderness, and swelling in the heel. Pain may intensify after prolonged standing or walking.

Treatment: A combination of rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, specific stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Your East St. Louis, IL physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and foot care techniques. This approach helps in alleviating discomfort and facilitating recovery.

Stress Fractures

Description: Stress fractures are small cracks in a bone caused by repetitive force, often from overuse.

Causes: Sudden increases in training intensity, running on hard or uneven surfaces, improper footwear, inadequate rest periods, and nutritional deficiencies such as low calcium or vitamin D levels.

Symptoms: Gradual pain that worsens with weight-bearing activity, swelling and tenderness at the fracture site, pain that eases with rest but recurs during physical activity, and visible bruising in some cases.

Treatment: The R.I.C.E method, and physical therapy with strengthening and stretching exercises. Nutritional counseling to ensure adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D may also be recommended. Your physical therapist will guide you through recovery, focusing on both physical health.

Muscle Pull

Description: A muscle pull, sometimes called a muscle strain, happens when muscle fibers are extended too far or torn.

Causes: Sudden acceleration or deceleration during activities like sprinting, repeated stress or overuse, inadequate warm-up or stretching before activity, and fatigue or muscle weakness.

Symptoms: Immediate, intense pain at the site of the injury, swelling and bruising, muscle weakness and difficulty using the affected muscle, stiffness, and limited range of motion. There may also be a noticeable decrease in strength and mobility.

Treatment: Applying rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), and physical therapy with careful stretching and strengthening exercises. Manual therapy techniques to reduce muscle tension and promote healing may also be recommended. This method assists in facilitating recovery and avoiding recurrence.

Ankle Sprain

Description: An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle are stretched or torn, typically due to a sudden twist or roll of the ankle.

Causes: Abrupt twisting or turning of the ankle during activities such as running or jumping, irregular surfaces that lead to unexpected ankle turns, improper footwear, and previous ankle injuries that weaken the ligaments.

Symptoms: Pain and tenderness around the ankle, swelling and bruising, difficulty bearing weight on the affected foot, and limited range of motion in the ankle. You might also experience instability in the ankle joint.

Treatment: The R.I.C.E method, and East St. Louis, IL physical therapy with strengthening exercises for the muscles around the ankle, balance and proprioception exercises, and manual therapy techniques. This approach helps in restoring stability and preventing future sprains.

IT (Iliotibial) Band Syndrome

Description: IT band syndrome involves inflammation of the iliotibial band, a thick band of tissue that runs along the outside of the thigh from the hip to the knee.

Causes: Repetitive stress from overuse such as running or cycling, running on uneven or sloped surfaces, weak hip and gluteal muscles, improper running form, and worn-out or inappropriate footwear.

Symptoms: Pain on the outside of the knee that may extend up the thigh, a snapping sensation on the outside of the knee, pain that worsens with activity and eases with rest, and tenderness and swelling along the IT band.

Treatment: Applying rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), and physical therapy with stretching exercises to improve flexibility, strengthening exercises for the hip and gluteal muscles, gait analysis and correction, foam rolling, and massage techniques. These methods help in alleviating discomfort and enhancing recovery.

Blisters

Description: Blisters are fluid-filled bubbles that form on the skin due to friction. They are common among runners and athletes who engage in activities that entail repetitive rubbing of the skin. These painful bubbles can form on any part of the body, most often on the feet.

Causes: Friction from shoes or socks that do not fit properly, moisture from sweat that softens the skin and heightens rubbing, running on uneven or rough surfaces, and wearing new or stiff shoes without proper break-in. Poorly fitted footwear and lack of moisture management can cause blisters, especially during prolonged runs or intense training sessions. Additional factors include high temperatures, wearing improper socks, and prolonged activity.

Symptoms: Pain and tenderness at the site of the blister, a fluid-filled bubble or, if serious, blood, redness and swelling around the blister, and trouble with the affected area due to pain. You may also feel irritation when wearing shoes.

Treatment: Protection using blister pads or bandages, careful drainage if necessary, keeping the affected area clean and dry, wearing appropriate shoes and foot care techniques, and in severe cases, East St. Louis, IL physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps prevent further rubbing and aid in healing.

How East St. Louis, IL Physical Therapists Can Help in Your Running Injury Treatment

Physical therapists play a crucial role in the recovery and rehabilitation of running injuries in East St. Louis, IL. Our expertise and individualized treatment help East St. Louis, IL runners return to their activities securely and effectively. Here’s how our East St. Louis, IL physical therapists can help you:

Thorough Assessment and Diagnosis: Our physical therapists conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify the underlying cause of the injury, providing an accurate diagnosis.
Development of Personalized Treatment Plans: Based on the assessment, our physical therapists create customized treatment plans tailored to your needs and goals. These plans often include a combination of therapies and exercises designed to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
Manual Therapy and Advanced Techniques: Our physical therapists use hands-on techniques such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue manipulation to reduce pain, improve mobility, and accelerate recovery. We may also employ advanced modalities like ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and dry needling to enhance treatment outcomes.
Exercise Prescription and Guidance: Targeted exercises are vital components of rehabilitation. Our physical therapists provide targeted exercise programs to address muscle imbalances, enhance range of motion, and boost overall strength and stability.
Education on Injury Prevention: Our physical therapists teach clients on proper techniques, footwear choices, and training regimens to reduce the risk of injuries. This includes gait analysis and correction to ensure ideal running mechanics.
Continuous Monitoring and Progress Tracking: Throughout the rehabilitation process, our physical therapists carefully track your progress, making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. This ongoing support ensures a safe and efficient recovery.

By utilizing our expertise and personalized approach, the East St. Louis, IL physical therapists at Axes Physical Therapy can successfully handle running injuries, helping you get back to the activities you love with confidence and lowered chance of re-injury.

Other services we offer in East St. Louis, IL include:

Getting Back to Running After Your Injury

Returning to running after an injury requires a careful and gradual approach to ensure long-term success and avoid further injury. Here are key steps to follow:

Gradual Return: Start with low-impact activities like walking or swimming before moving on to light jogging. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs as your body adapts.
Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises: Stick to exercises prescribed by your physical therapist to sustain strength and flexibility. Focus on the muscles most affected by your injury to stop re-injury.
Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Don’t forget to add a thorough warm-up before running and a cool-down afterward. This readies your muscles for activity and facilitates recovery.
Monitor Your Body: Be aware of any signs of discomfort or pain. If you feel any symptoms of your previous injury, stop running and consult your physical therapist.
Maintain Good Running Form: Confirm you are running with proper form to reduce stress on your joints and muscles. Your physical therapist can offer advice on optimal running mechanics.
Use Appropriate Footwear: Invest in high-quality running shoes that provide sufficient support and cushioning. Replace them regularly to avoid wear and tear that could lead to injury.
Set Realistic Goals: Be patient and set achievable milestones for your return to running. Don’t push yourself too fast too soon.

By following these steps and working closely with your physical therapist in East St. Louis, IL, you can securely return to running and enjoy the physical and mental benefits it brings.

Contact Axes Physical Therapy for Your Running Injury Treatment in East St. Louis, IL

Running injuries can be a major setback, but with the right approach to treatment and recovery, you can get back to the activities you love. Treating injuries early, engaging in a comprehensive physical therapy program, and following a gradual return-to-running plan are vital steps in ensuring a safe and effective recovery. Axes Physical Therapy is committed to providing personalized, evidence-backed care to help individuals in East St. Louis, IL overcome their running injuries and reach your fitness objectives.

If a running injury is preventing you from enjoying your favorite activities in East St. Louis, IL, delay no more. Contact Axes Physical Therapy today to book an appointment and start your journey toward a full recovery. Our experienced East St. Louis, IL physical therapists are prepared to support you return to your favorite activities with confidence and strength.

East St. Louis, IL