Imperial, MO

Imperial, MO

Contact our Imperial, MO physical therapists to resume your activities and return to your favorite activities safely and effectively.

Running Injury Imperial, MO. Running is a popular and gratifying activity, but getting in shape and chasing that “runner’s high” carries the risk of injury. Whether you’re an skilled marathoner, a weekend jogger, or working on weight loss, running injuries can interrupt your routine and impede your progress. Getting the effective treatment for these running injuries in Imperial, MO is crucial for a prompt recovery and averting long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our Imperial, MO physical therapists are experts in treating running injuries with customized treatments and scientifically supported techniques. Our experienced physical therapists are dedicated to helping you return to the activities you love, guaranteeing a safe and lasting return to running. Contact the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to start your journey. You may also come to any one of our locations for a free injury screening.

You can also check out our Beginner Running Program Tips and Beginner’s Guide to Running for tips on gaining the benefits of running safely.

Common Running Injuries and How Imperial, MO Physical Therapists Treat Them

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

Shin Splints

Description: Shin splints, medically known 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 rapid escalation in training levels, running on hard or uneven surfaces, improper footwear, and having flat feet or excessively rigid arches.

Symptoms: Sensitivity, soreness, or pain along the inner side of the shinbone, minor swelling in the lower leg, and discomfort that subsides with rest but can return with physical activity.

Treatment: Treatment aims at easing pain and inflammation and preventing 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, involves pain around the kneecap due to improper alignment or overuse.

Causes: Weak or imbalanced thigh muscles, improper running form, overuse, and activities that put strain on the knee joint, such as excessive running, jumping, or squatting. Other contributing factors include tight hamstrings, calf muscles, and soft tissue imbalances.

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

Treatment: A comprehensive approach involving rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle strengthening, and flexibility exercises, and professional physical therapy to enhance alignment and muscle balance. Your Imperial, MO physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to support the kneecap and ease pain. This method aids in 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: Overuse from activities that involve repetitive stress on the tendon, sudden increases in training intensity, tight calf muscles, wearing the wrong shoes, and running on uneven surfaces.

Symptoms: Pain and stiffness along the Achilles tendon, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, swelling, and limited range of motion in the ankle. There may be discomfort that intensifies during physical activity.

Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, stretching and strengthening exercises, and physical therapy. Your Imperial, MO physical therapist may also recommend eccentric loading exercises to strengthen the tendon. This approach helps in facilitating recovery and avoiding future issues.

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: 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: Sharp, stabbing pain in the heel, particularly noticeable with the first steps after waking or after periods of inactivity, soreness, and swelling in the heel. Discomfort can increase after prolonged standing or walking.

Treatment: A combination of rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory medications, specific stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Your Imperial, MO physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and methods to care for your feet. This method aids in reducing pain 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, jogging on unforgiving or irregular terrain, improper footwear, inadequate rest periods, 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 site, pain that eases with rest but recurs during physical activity, and visible bruising in some cases.

Treatment: Applying rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E), 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, commonly referred to as 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 gradual stretching and strengthening exercises. Manual therapy techniques to reduce muscle tension and promote healing may also be recommended. This method assists in restoring function and preventing future injuries.

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 Imperial, MO physical therapy with strengthening exercises for the muscles around the ankle, balance and proprioception exercises, and manual therapy techniques. This method aids in restoring stability and avoiding recurrence.

IT (Iliotibial) Band Syndrome

Description: IT band syndrome is characterized by 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: Overuse from repetitive activities such as running or cycling, jogging on irregular or inclined terrain, 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 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 assist in alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.

Blisters

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

Causes: Friction from shoes or socks that are too tight or loose, 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 lead to blisters, especially during long runs or intense physical activities. 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, in severe cases, blood, redness and swelling around the blister, and trouble with the affected area due to pain. You may also feel discomfort when putting on footwear.

Treatment: Covering the blister with pads or bandages, draining the blister carefully if needed, moisture management, proper footwear and foot care techniques, and for more serious cases, Imperial, MO physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps avoid further friction and promote healing.

Running Injury Treatment With St. Louis Physical Therapists

Therapists play a crucial role in the healing and restoration of running injuries in Imperial, MO. Our expertise and personalized care help Imperial, MO runners resume their activities safely and effectively. Here’s how our Imperial, MO physical therapists can help you:

  • Thorough Assessment and Diagnosis: We perform in-depth assessments to identify the underlying cause of the injury, ensuring 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: 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 crucial components of rehabilitation. Our physical therapists provide targeted exercise programs to correct muscle weaknesses, improve flexibility, and enhance overall strength and stability.
  • Education on Injury Prevention: Our physical therapists educate patients 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 harnessing our knowledge and personalized approach, the Imperial, MO physical therapists at Axes Physical Therapy can successfully handle running injuries, aiding in your return to your favorite activities with confidence and lowered chance of re-injury.

Other services we offer in Imperial, MO include:

Getting Back to Running After Your Injury

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

  • Gradual Return: Begin with gentle exercises 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: Continue with exercises prescribed by your physical therapist to maintain strength and flexibility. Target the muscles most affected by your injury to avoid 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 conditions your muscles for activity and supports recovery.
  • Monitor Your Body: Observe any signs of discomfort or pain. If you encounter any symptoms of your previous injury, stop running and consult your physical therapist.
  • Maintain Good Running Form: Ensure you are running with proper form to reduce stress on your joints and muscles. Your physical therapist can assist on optimal running mechanics.
  • Use Appropriate Footwear: Invest in good-quality 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. Refrain from overexerting too quickly.

By following these steps and working closely with your physical therapist in Imperial, MO, you can safely return to running and enjoy the physical and mental benefits it brings.

Contact Axes Physical Therapy for Your Running Injury Treatment in Imperial, MO

Running injuries can be a major setback, but with the proper strategy to treatment and recovery, you can get back 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 essential steps in ensuring a safe and effective recovery. Axes Physical Therapy is committed to providing personalized, evidence-backed care to help individuals in Imperial, MO overcome their running injuries and achieve your fitness goals.

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

Services Offered

Services Offered
  • Physical Therapy
    • Pre/Post Surgical Rehabilitation
    • Acute Injury Management
    • Chronic Injury Management
  • Work Conditioning/Hardening
  • Functional Capacity Evaluations
  • Sports Physical Therapy
  • Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Physical Therapy
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
  • Spine Specialty – Certified Manual Therapy
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Stephen Brunjes
OTR/L, CEAS
Greg Nicholas
Clinic Director, MPT, CMPT
Grace Gualtieri
Physical Therapist
Shawna Morrow
Front Office

Locations

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Injuries and pain shouldn’t keep you from moving and doing the things you love.