West Alton, MO

West Alton, MO

Reach out to our West Alton, MO physical therapists to get back on your feet and return to your favorite activities safely and effectively.

Running Injury West Alton, MO. Running is a common and gratifying activity, but achieving fitness and seeking that “runner’s high” includes the chance of injury. Whether you’re an veteran marathoner, a recreational jogger, or aiming to shed pounds, running injuries can derail your routine and obstruct your progress. Getting the proper treatment for these running injuries in West Alton, MO is essential for a prompt recovery and avoiding long-term issues.

At Axes Physical Therapy, our West Alton, MO physical therapists specialize in treating running injuries with individualized attention and proven approaches. Our knowledgeable physical therapists are committed to helping you resume the activities you love, guaranteeing a safe and long-term return to running. Call the Axes location nearest you, contact us online, or request an appointment today to start your journey. 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 ways to achieve the benefits of running safely.

Common Running Injuries and How West Alton, MO Physical Therapists Treat Them

Knowing common running injuries, their causes, symptoms, and treatment options is vital for effective management and prevention. Some of the most common running injuries in West Alton, MO are:

Shin Splints

Description: Shin splints, scientifically termed medial tibial stress syndrome, are characterized 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 possessing flat feet or overly stiff arches.

Symptoms: Sensitivity, discomfort, or pain along the inner side of the shinbone, mild swelling in the lower leg, and discomfort that subsides with rest but can come back when you resume activity.

Treatment: Treatment focuses on 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 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 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 West Alton, MO physical therapist may also recommend Kinesio Taping® to support the kneecap and alleviate 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, calf muscle tightness, improper footwear, 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. There may be discomfort that intensifies during physical activity.

Treatment: Rest, ice, anti-inflammatory medications, stretching and strengthening exercises, and physical therapy. Your West Alton, MO physical therapist may also recommend eccentric loading exercises to strengthen the tendon. This method assists 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, improper footwear, having high or flat arches, or tight calf muscles, or abruptly ramping up your workout 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. 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 West Alton, MO physical therapist may also recommend supportive footwear and foot care techniques. This approach helps in reducing pain 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: Slowly developing 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: 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, emphasizing both physical health.

Muscle Pull

Description: A muscle pull, commonly referred to as a muscle strain, occurs when muscle fibers are extended too far 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: 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 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: Sudden twisting or rolling 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 West Alton, 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 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: 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 on the outside of the knee that may extend up the thigh, a snapping feeling along the outer knee, pain that intensifies with activity and improves 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 assist in relieving pain and enhancing recovery.

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 uncomfortable bubbles can form on any part of the body, usually on the feet.

Causes: Friction from shoes or socks that are ill-fitting, 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 not keeping feet dry can cause blisters, especially during extended runs or intense workouts. Additional factors include high temperatures, wearing improper socks, and prolonged activity.

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

Treatment: Covering the blister with pads or bandages, draining the blister carefully if needed, keeping the affected area clean and dry, wearing appropriate shoes and foot care techniques, and for more serious cases, West Alton, MO physical therapy with gait analysis and correction. This approach helps avoid further rubbing and promote healing.

How West Alton, MO Physical Therapists Can Help in Your Running Injury Treatment

Therapists play a crucial role in the recovery and rehabilitation of injuries from running in West Alton, MO. Our expertise and personalized care help West Alton, MO runners return to their activities safely and efficiently. Here’s how our West Alton, 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, we develop 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 essential components of rehabilitation. Our physical therapists design targeted exercise programs to address muscle imbalances, improve flexibility, 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 ideal 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 West Alton, 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 West Alton, 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 prevent re-injury. Here are key steps to follow:

  • Gradual Return: Start with low-impact activities like walking or swimming before progressing to light jogging. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your runs as your body adapts.
  • Strengthening and Flexibility Exercises: Follow exercises prescribed by your physical therapist to enhance 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 supports recovery.
  • Monitor Your Body: Observe 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: Verify you are running with proper form to reduce stress on your joints and muscles. Your physical therapist can provide guidance on optimal running mechanics.
  • Use Appropriate Footwear: Invest in reliable 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 adhering to these guidelines and working closely with your physical therapist in West Alton, 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 West Alton, MO

Injuries from running can be a serious setback, but with the proper strategy to treatment and recovery, you can get back to the activities you love. Addressing injuries promptly, 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 West Alton, MO recover from running injuries and achieve your fitness goals.

If a running injury is preventing you from enjoying your favorite activities in West Alton, MO, don’t wait. Contact Axes Physical Therapy today to book an appointment and begin your path to a full recovery. Our experienced West Alton, MO physical therapists are ready to assist you return to your favorite activities 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
  • Pediatric Orthopedic Physical Therapy
  • Geriatric Physical Therapy
  • Vestibular Therapy and Post-Concussion Rehabilitation
  • Instrument Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (Astym)
  • Spine Specialty – Certified Manual Therapy
  • Free Injury Screenings
  • Trigger Point Dry Needling
  • Kinesio Taping®
  • Video Motion Analysis
  • Blood Flow Restriction Therapy

Our Team

Sara Crain
PT, CEAS, Astym Cert.
Candace Cunningham
Clinic Director, PT, DPT, CMPT
Abigail Alsmeyer
Front Office

Locations

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