Running Injury Gray Summit, MO. Running is a popular and satisfying activity, but improving fitness and pursuing that “runner’s high” carries the possibility of injury. Whether you’re an skilled marathoner, a recreational jogger, or focused on slimming down, running injuries can interrupt your routine and slow down your progress. Getting the proper treatment for these running injuries in Gray Summit, MO is vital for a swift recovery and averting long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our Gray Summit, MO physical therapists specialize in treating running injuries with individualized attention and proven approaches. Our knowledgeable physical therapists are focused on helping you return to the activities you love, ensuring a risk-free and lasting return to running. Contact the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to start your journey. Or, you can stop by any one of our locations for a free injury screening.

You can also look into 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 Gray Summit, MO Physical Therapists Treat Them

Understanding frequent running injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effective management and prevention. Some of the most common running injuries in Gray Summit, MO are:

Shin Splints

Description: Shin splints, also referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome, are defined by pain along the shinbone (tibia) due to swelling 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, jogging on unforgiving or irregular terrain, improper footwear, and having low arches or overly firm foot structure.

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

Treatment: Treatment focuses on easing pain and inflammation and avoiding 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: Muscle imbalances or weakness in the thighs, 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, especially evident when bending the knee, climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods. The pain may increase with activity and improve 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 enhance alignment and muscle balance. Your Gray Summit, MO physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to stabilize the kneecap and alleviate pain. This method contributes to easing 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: Repetitive stress from overuse during various activities, abruptly ramping up your workout intensity, calf muscle tightness, improper footwear, and running on uneven surfaces.

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 Gray Summit, MO physical therapist may also recommend eccentric loading exercises to strengthen the tendon. This approach helps in promoting healing and avoiding future issues.

Plantar Fasciitis

Description: Plantar fasciitis is characterized by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that spans the bottom of the foot.

Causes: Repetitive stress from overuse in various activities, wearing the wrong shoes, high arches, flat feet, tight calf muscles, or sudden increases in training intensity.

Symptoms: Intense, piercing pain in the heel, especially during the first steps in the morning or after periods of inactivity, soreness, and swelling in the heel. Pain may intensify after prolonged standing or walking.

Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Your Gray Summit, MO physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and methods to care for your feet. 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: Abrupt boosts in workout levels, running on hard or uneven surfaces, improper footwear, insufficient recovery time, and dietary shortages such as low calcium or vitamin D levels.

Symptoms: Slowly developing pain that intensifies during weight-bearing activities, swelling and tenderness at the fracture location, pain that improves with rest but returns with 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. A professional therapist will guide you through recovery, emphasizing physical and nutritional health.

Muscle Pull

Description: A muscle pull, sometimes called a muscle strain, occurs when muscle fibers are overstretched or torn.

Causes: Quick changes in speed 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: The R.I.C.E method, and physical therapy with careful stretching and strengthening exercises. Manual therapy techniques to alleviate muscle tightness and promote healing may also be recommended. This method assists in facilitating recovery and preventing future injuries.

Ankle Sprain

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

Causes: Sudden twisting or rolling of the ankle during activities such as running or jumping, uneven surfaces that cause the ankle to turn unexpectedly, improper footwear, and previous ankle injuries that compromise ligament strength.

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. There can also be instability in the ankle joint.

Treatment: Applying rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), and Gray Summit, MO physical therapy with strengthening exercises for the muscles around the ankle, balance and proprioception exercises, and manual therapy techniques. This approach helps in enhancing 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 shoes that are either worn-out or not suitable.

Symptoms: Pain radiating from the outer knee to the thigh, a clicking sensation on the outside of the knee, pain that increases with activity and improves 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 typical among runners and athletes who engage in activities that entail repetitive rubbing of the skin. These uncomfortable bubbles can develop 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. Shoes that are either too tight or loose and not keeping feet dry can cause blisters, especially during prolonged runs or intense training sessions. Additional factors include hot weather, inadequate socks, and prolonged activity.

Symptoms: Pain and tenderness at the site of the blister, a raised bubble filled with clear fluid or, in severe cases, blood, inflammation around the blister, and trouble with the affected area due to pain. You may also experience discomfort when wearing shoes.

Treatment: Covering the blister with pads or bandages, draining the blister carefully if needed, moisture management, wearing appropriate shoes and foot care techniques, and in severe cases, Gray Summit, MO physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps prevent further friction and aid in healing.

Running Injury Treatment With St. Louis Physical Therapists

Physical therapists are vital in the recovery and restoration of injuries from running in Gray Summit, MO. Our knowledge and individualized treatment help Gray Summit, MO runners return to their activities securely and effectively. Here’s how our Gray Summit, MO physical therapists can help you:

• Thorough Assessment and Diagnosis: We perform in-depth assessments to identify the root 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 typically involve a combination of therapies and exercises designed to promote healing and prevent recurrence.
• Manual Therapy and Advanced Techniques: We utilize manual methods such as massage, joint mobilization, and soft tissue manipulation to alleviate discomfort, 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: Strengthening and stretching exercises are essential components of rehabilitation. Our physical therapists design targeted exercise programs to address muscle imbalances, improve flexibility, and boost overall strength and stability.
• Education on Injury Prevention: Our physical therapists inform individuals on proper techniques, footwear choices, and training regimens to prevent future injuries. This includes gait analysis and correction to ensure optimal running mechanics.
• Continuous Monitoring and Progress Tracking: Throughout the rehabilitation process, our physical therapists closely monitor your progress, making necessary adjustments to the treatment plan. This ongoing support helps ensure a safe and effective recovery.

By utilizing our expertise and personalized approach, the Gray Summit, MO physical therapists at Axes Physical Therapy can successfully handle running injuries, aiding in your return to your favorite activities with confidence and reduced risk of recurrence.

Other services we offer in Gray Summit, MO include:

• Herniated Disc Treatment
• Rotator Cuff Tear Treatment
• MCL Tear
• ACL Rehabilitation
• Functional Capacity Evaluation
• Vertigo Treatment
• Total Knee Replacement Physical Therapy
• Vestibular Therapy
• Concussion Treatment

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 prevent re-injury. Here are key steps to follow:

• Gradual Return: Begin with gentle exercises like walking or swimming before moving on to light jogging. Slowly increase the intensity and duration of your runs as your body adapts.
• Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises: Adhere to exercises prescribed by your physical therapist to maintain strength and flexibility. Concentrate on the muscles most affected by your injury to stop re-injury.
• Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Always include a thorough warm-up before running and a cool-down afterward. This prepares your muscles for activity and promotes recovery.
• Monitor Your Body: Listen to any signs of discomfort or pain. If you experience any symptoms of your previous injury, stop running and consult your physical therapist.
• Maintain Good Running Form: Make sure you are running with proper form to reduce stress on your joints and muscles. Your physical therapist can give tips on optimal running mechanics.
• Use Appropriate Footwear: Invest in durable running shoes that provide proper 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 adhering to these guidelines and collaborating with your physical therapist in Gray Summit, MO, 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 Gray Summit, MO

Running injuries can be a significant setback, but with the right approach to rehabilitation, you can return to the activities you love. Treating injuries early, engaging in a comprehensive physical therapy program, and adhering to 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 Gray Summit, MO overcome their running injuries and achieve your fitness goals.

If a running injury is holding you back from your favorite activities in Gray Summit, MO, delay no more. Contact Axes Physical Therapy today to book an appointment and initiate a full recovery. Our experienced Gray Summit, MO physical therapists are ready to assist you get back to the activities you love with confidence and strength.