Running Injury Treatment The Hill, St. Louis, MO

Running Injury The Hill, St. Louis, MO. Running is a well-loved and gratifying activity, but getting fit and seeking that “runner’s high” carries the chance of injury. Whether you’re an veteran marathoner, a occasional jogger, or aiming to shed pounds, running injuries can interrupt your routine and obstruct your progress. Getting the right treatment for these running injuries in The Hill, St. Louis, MO is essential for a swift recovery and averting long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapists specialize in treating running injuries with personalized care and scientifically supported techniques. Our experienced physical therapists are committed to helping you resume the activities you love, guaranteeing a secure and sustainable return to running. Reach out to the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to start your journey. Or, you can 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 ways to achieve the benefits of running safely.

Common Running Injuries and How The Hill, St. Louis, MO Physical Therapists Treat Them

Grasping typical running injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for proper handling and prevention. In The Hill, St. Louis, MO, runners often encounter these common injuries:

Shin Splints

Description: Shin splints, also referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome, are noted for 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 sudden boosts in workout intensity, exercising on solid or bumpy grounds, improper footwear, and having flat feet or excessively rigid arches.

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

Treatment: Treatment aims at alleviating pain and inflammation and preventing 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, involves 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 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, most apparent when bending the knee, climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for extended periods. The pain may increase with activity and lessen 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to stabilize the kneecap and alleviate pain. This method contributes to managing 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, 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, notably upon waking or after periods of inactivity, swelling, and limited range of motion in the ankle. There may be 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapist may also recommend eccentric loading exercises to enhance tendon strength. This method assists in facilitating recovery 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, wearing the wrong shoes, high arches, flat feet, tight calf muscles, or abruptly ramping up your workout intensity.

Symptoms: Intense, piercing 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: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, stretching exercises, orthotic devices, and physical therapy. Your The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and methods to care for your feet. This method aids in alleviating discomfort and promoting healing.

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 nutritional deficiencies such as low calcium or vitamin D levels.

Symptoms: Gradual pain that intensifies during weight-bearing activities, 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, sometimes called a muscle strain, happens when muscle fibers are strained or torn.

Causes: Quick changes in speed during activities like sprinting, overuse or repetitive stress on the muscle, inadequate warm-up or stretching before activity, and fatigue or muscle weakness.

Symptoms: Sudden, sharp 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 approach helps 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: Abrupt twisting or turning 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 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. There can also be instability in the ankle joint.

Treatment: The R.I.C.E method, and The Hill, St. Louis, MO 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 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 worn-out or inappropriate footwear.

Symptoms: Pain radiating from the outer knee to the thigh, a snapping feeling along the outer knee, pain that intensifies 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 flexibility-enhancing stretches, strengthening exercises for the hip and gluteal muscles, gait analysis and correction, foam rolling, and massage techniques. These methods help in relieving pain 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 require repetitive rubbing of the skin. These uncomfortable bubbles can appear on any part of the body, most often on the feet.

Causes: Friction from shoes or socks that are ill-fitting, 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 long 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, 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: Protection using blister pads or bandages, careful drainage if necessary, moisture management, proper footwear and foot care techniques, and for more serious cases, The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps avoid further rubbing and aid in healing.

Running Injury Treatment With St. Louis Physical Therapists

Physical therapists play a crucial role in the recovery and rehabilitation of running injuries in The Hill, St. Louis, MO. Our knowledge and personalized care help The Hill, St. Louis, MO runners return to their activities securely and effectively. Here’s how our The Hill, St. Louis, MO 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 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 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 correct muscle weaknesses, enhance range of motion, and enhance 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 efficient 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 ensures a safe and effective recovery.

By utilizing our knowledge and personalized approach, the The Hill, St. Louis, MO 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO include:

Getting Back to Running After Your Injury

Returning to running after an injury demands 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 preserve strength and flexibility. Concentrate on the muscles most affected by your injury to reduce the risk of recurrence.
Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down: Don’t forget to add a thorough warm-up before running and a cool-down afterward. This helps prepare your muscles for activity and aids in recovery.
Monitor Your Body: Be aware of 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: Verify 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 adequate 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. Avoid pushing yourself too hard too soon.

By adhering to these guidelines and collaborating with your physical therapist in The Hill, St. Louis, 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO

Injuries from running can be a significant setback, but with the proper strategy to treatment and recovery, you can return 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 The Hill, St. Louis, MO overcome their running injuries and achieve your fitness goals.

If a running injury is keeping you from your favorite activities in The Hill, St. Louis, MO, act now. Contact Axes Physical Therapy today to book an appointment and start your journey toward a full recovery. Our experienced The Hill, St. Louis, MO physical therapists are here to help you return to your favorite activities with confidence and strength.

The Hill, St. Louis, MO