Running Injuries

Why Runners Get Injured

Most running injuries are overuse conditions — they develop when the load placed on a tissue exceeds its capacity to recover. Common examples include patellofemoral pain (runner's knee), medial tibial stress syndrome (shin splints), iliotibial band syndrome, Achilles tendinopathy, and plantar fasciitis. Training errors such as increasing mileage too quickly, not allowing adequate recovery, or running in worn-out shoes are frequent contributors. Biomechanical factors like hip weakness, poor ankle mobility, or running technique can also play a role.

Getting You Running Again

My approach to running injuries starts with understanding your training history, injury pattern, and goals. I perform a thorough physical assessment and, where relevant, a running gait analysis to identify contributing biomechanical factors. Treatment combines targeted strengthening exercises, load management advice, and a graded return-to-running programme. I do not believe in telling runners to stop running unless absolutely necessary — instead, I modify your training to allow healing while keeping you active.

Common Symptoms

• Pain during or after running
• Knee pain descending hills or stairs
• Shin pain that builds during a run
• Pain on the outside of the knee or hip
• Heel or Achilles pain in the morning
• Calf tightness or strain during speed work

How I Treat It

• Running-specific biomechanical assessment
• Hip and glute strengthening programmes
• Progressive tendon loading for Achilles and plantar fascia
• Gait retraining advice
• Graded return-to-running programme
• Training load management and planning

What to Expect

• Detailed injury and training history assessment
• Physical examination and movement screening
• Running gait analysis where appropriate
• Personalised strength and conditioning programme
• Graded return-to-running plan
• Ongoing support as you build back to your target