Roxana, IL

Roxana, IL

Contact our Roxana, IL physical therapists to get back on your feet and get back to the activities you love safely and effectively.

Running Injury Roxana, IL. Running is a well-loved and rewarding activity, but achieving fitness and chasing that “runner’s high” comes with the risk of injury. Whether you’re an seasoned marathoner, a weekend jogger, or aiming to shed pounds, running injuries can interrupt your routine and hinder your progress. Getting the proper treatment for these running injuries in Roxana, IL is vital for a prompt recovery and stopping long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our Roxana, IL physical therapists specialize in treating running injuries with personalized care and scientifically supported techniques. Our knowledgeable physical therapists are dedicated to helping you get back to the activities you love, guaranteeing a safe and lasting return to running. Reach out to the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to get started. Or, you can come to 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 tips on gaining the benefits of running safely.

Common Running Injuries and How Roxana, IL Physical Therapists Treat Them

Understanding common running injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for proper handling and prevention. Among the prevalent running injuries in Roxana, IL, 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 muscles, tendons, and bone 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, running on hard or uneven surfaces, improper footwear, and possessing flat feet or overly stiff arches.

Symptoms: Tenderness, aching, or pain along the inner side of the shinbone, minor swelling in the lower leg, and discomfort that subsides with rest but can return when you resume activity.

Treatment: Treatment is centered on reducing pain and inflammation and avoiding recurrence. Strategies include rest, ice, compression, elevation (the R.I.C.E. method), and physical therapy with strengthening and stretching exercises.

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 stress 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, particularly noticeable when bending the knee, climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods. The pain may worsen with activity and improve with rest. Discomfort can occur 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 Roxana, IL physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to support the kneecap and ease 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: Overuse from activities that involve repetitive stress on the tendon, sudden increases in training intensity, tight calf muscles, wearing the wrong shoes, and jogging on irregular terrain.

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. You may notice discomfort that worsens with activity.

Treatment: A regimen of rest, ice application, anti-inflammatory drugs, targeted stretching and strengthening routines, and professional physical therapy. Your Roxana, IL 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 is characterized by 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, 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 Roxana, IL physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and foot care techniques. This method aids in reducing pain and facilitating recovery.

Stress Fractures

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

Causes: Abrupt boosts in workout levels, running on hard or uneven surfaces, improper footwear, inadequate rest periods, and dietary shortages such as low calcium or vitamin D levels.

Symptoms: Slowly developing pain that worsens with weight-bearing activity, swelling and tenderness at the fracture location, pain that eases with rest but recurs during physical activity, and occasional visible bruising.

Treatment: The R.I.C.E method, and physical therapy with strengthening and stretching exercises. Nutritional counseling to ensure sufficient levels of calcium and vitamin D may also be recommended. A professional therapist will guide you through recovery, emphasizing both physical health.

Muscle Pull

Description: A muscle pull, commonly referred to as a muscle strain, happens 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 restoring function 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: 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 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: The R.I.C.E method, and Roxana, 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 avoiding recurrence.

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

Treatment: The R.I.C.E method, 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 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 require repetitive rubbing of the skin. These annoying bubbles can appear on any part of the body, usually on the feet.

Causes: Friction from shoes or socks that do not fit properly, moisture from sweat that softens the skin and heightens rubbing, jogging on irregular or harsh terrain, and wearing new or stiff shoes without proper break-in. Poorly fitted footwear and lack of moisture management can result in blisters, especially during prolonged runs or intense training sessions. Additional factors include hot weather, wearing improper 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, redness and swelling around the blister, and difficulty using the affected area due to pain. You may also experience 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 in severe cases, Roxana, IL physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps prevent further rubbing and promote healing.

How Roxana, IL Physical Therapists Can Help in Your Running Injury Treatment

Therapists are vital in the healing and restoration of injuries from running in Roxana, IL. Our knowledge and personalized care help Roxana, IL runners resume their activities securely and effectively. Here’s how our Roxana, IL physical therapists can help you:

  • Thorough Assessment and Diagnosis: Our physical therapists conduct comprehensive evaluations to identify the root 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 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: Strengthening and stretching exercises are vital components of rehabilitation. Our physical therapists offer 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 prevent future 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 helps ensure a safe and efficient recovery.

By harnessing our knowledge and personalized approach, the Roxana, IL physical therapists at Axes Physical Therapy can effectively manage running injuries, helping you get back to the activities you love with confidence and lowered chance of re-injury.

Other services we offer in Roxana, 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: Begin with gentle exercises like walking or swimming before progressing to light jogging. Slowly 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 preserve strength and flexibility. Concentrate on the muscles most affected by your injury to prevent recurrence.
  • 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 aids in recovery.
  • Monitor Your Body: Listen to any signs of discomfort or pain. If you notice 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 assist 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 following these steps and collaborating with your physical therapist in Roxana, 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 Roxana, IL

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 following 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 Roxana, IL recover from running injuries and reach your fitness objectives.

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

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