Running Injury & Performance
Running is one of the most popular forms of exercise worldwide — but it’s also one of the most injury-prone. Research shows that up to 79% of runners will experience an injury each year (van Gent et al., 2007, British Journal of Sports Medicine). Common issues like shin splints, runner’s knee, IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and Achilles tendinopathy can sideline runners for weeks or months at a time.
The good news: most running injuries are preventable and treatable with the right plan. At Timber and Iron Physical Therapy, we don’t just get you out of pain — we look at how you run, how you move, and how you train to keep you healthy and performing your best.
What the Research Says
Most running injuries are overuse injuries, caused by training errors or weakness in supporting muscles rather than a single traumatic event.
Gait retraining and progressive loading have been shown to reduce pain and reinjury risk (Davis et al., 2010, PM&R Journal).
Strength training for runners reduces overuse injury risk by improving tissue capacity and running economy (Lauersen et al., 2014, British Journal of Sports Medicine).
Our Approach to Running Injuries
Every runner is unique — which is why we start with a comprehensive running assessment that may include:
Video analysis of your running form and gait mechanics
Strength and mobility testing of the hips, knees, ankles, and core
Evaluation of your footwear, training load, and recovery strategies
From there, we create a plan that helps you:
Calm pain and irritation so you can move comfortably.
Address weaknesses or imbalances contributing to your injury.
Retrain your gait and running mechanics for improved efficiency.
Progress back into training with a sport-specific loading program.
Treatment Options We Provide
Running gait analysis and movement assessment
Instrument assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
Soft tissue mobilization
Myofascial decompression (cupping)
Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFR)
Targeted strengthening for runners (hips, core, and lower leg)
Progressive return-to-run and performance programming
Running injuries don’t have to sideline you. With the right plan, you can recover faster, improve your performance, and build the durability to keep logging miles for years to come. For proactive strategies, check out our blog: Prevent Running Injuries: 5 Key Strength Exercises Every Runner Needs.