Common Running Injuries & how Physiotherapy can help: Part 1
by Aki Nemoto
Running is one of the most accessible and effective ways to stay fit. In London, we’re fortunate to have a wealth of beautiful parks and scenic routes, making it an ideal city for runners. Whether you’re training for a marathon or simply enjoying a morning jog, it’s easy to overlook the impact running can have on your body. The repetitive motion can strain muscles, joints, and connective tissues, potentially leading to injury if not properly managed.
If you are new to running – we recommend being proactive and book a screening assessment with physiotherapist before you begin. At POTR, we would check your ROM, physical strength, your running technique, muscle length and more. This would help the physiotherapist identify any potential problem areas that could be tackled as part of your training programme.
In this blog, we’ll explore the five most common running injuries we see at our physiotherapy clinic. From knee pain to shin splints, we’ll break down the causes, symptoms, and—most importantly—how physiotherapy can help you recover and get back on track.
Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)
What is it?
Patellofemoral pain, often referred to as runner’s knee, is a broad term for pain in the front of the knee, specifically where the kneecap (patella) meets the femur (thigh bone). The knee moves in a groove as it bends and straightens, and problems arise when this movement becomes misaligned or overloaded.
Main Symptoms:
- Gradual pain in the front of the knee, around the kneecap
- Pain worsens with activities like squatting, running, or climbing stairs
- In severe cases, swelling or tenderness around the knee
What Causes It?
The main cause of runner’s knee is overload on the knee joint. This can happen with sudden increases in running distance or intensity, weak muscles that can’t properly support the knee, or poor movement mechanics that misalign the kneecap during exercise.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy for runner’s knee focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes, such as muscle imbalances or poor running technique. Treatment may include:
- Tailored exercises: To strengthen weak muscles around the knee and hip
- Movement correction: Advice on modifying techniques and reducing activities that aggravate the knee
- Manual therapy: Targeted treatment to release tight muscles and improve joint mobility
- Taping: To provide support and reduce strain on the knee
Iliotibial Band (ITB) Syndrome
What is it?
Patellofemoral pain, often referred to as runner’s knee, is a broad term for pain in the front of the knee, specifically where the kneecap (patella) meets the femur (thigh bone). The knee moves in a groove as it bends and straightens, and problems arise when this movement becomes misaligned or overloaded.
Main Symptoms:
- Gradual pain in the front of the knee, around the kneecap
- Pain worsens with activities like squatting, running, or climbing stairs
- In severe cases, swelling or tenderness around the knee
What Causes It?
The main cause of runner’s knee is overload on the knee joint. This can happen with sudden increases in running distance or intensity, weak muscles that can’t properly support the knee, or poor movement mechanics that misalign the kneecap during exercise.
How Can Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy for runner’s knee focuses on identifying and addressing the underlying causes, such as muscle imbalances or poor running technique. Treatment may include:
- Tailored exercises: To strengthen weak muscles around the knee and hip
- Movement correction: Advice on modifying techniques and reducing activities that aggravate the knee
- Manual therapy: Targeted treatment to release tight muscles and improve joint mobility
- Taping: To provide support and reduce strain on the knee
Part 2: Running injuries and the lower leg and foot
To continue reading, please see Part 2 published next week.
If you’re dealing with any aches, pains, or injuries from running, consulting a physiotherapist early can help you avoid prolonged discomfort and ensure a faster recovery. At our clinic, we can assess your injury and tailor treatment to your specific needs, helping you get back on the path to injury-free running.
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Aki Nemoto graduated with a Doctor of Physiotherapy degree from the University of Melbourne in 2019. Since then, she has gained valuable experience working in private practices in Melbourne, where she led Clinical Pilates classes and treated a range of general and sporting injuries.
To find out more about how we could help you or to book an assessment, please call our Reception Team on 020 8876 5690.
