London has some of the most scenic running routes, from Hyde Park to the Thames Path. For some runners however these miles can may be painful. Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner, a weekend jogger or just starting the Couch to 5K, common running injuries such as shin splints, knee pain, and plantar fasciitis can prevent you from reaching your training goals.
Nearly every person who participates in any sport will experience an injury at some point, and runners are no exceptions. The good news is that, in most cases, injuries can be treated and with a few tweaks, may often be prevented!
Common running injuries & why running cause pain?
Runners often suffer from Plantar Fasciitis, Runners Knee, Patella Tendinopathy & Shin Splints amongst many other issues. It is important to remember that your pain could be due to many things so it’s always worth getting a proper consultation with a health care professional to diagnose your individual case.
- Plantar fasciitis – Inflammation of the plantar fascia ligament, located in the sole of the foot between the toes and heel. This injury is commonly associated with overloading and training on hard surfaces but can also be due to calf muscle issues and ankle problems.
- Runner’s knee – Patellofemoral pain syndrome, more commonly known as runner’s knee, is often associated with long distance running. It is normally reported as a pain in the centre of the knee directly under the kneecap or slightly to the outside of the knee.
- Patella tendinopathy also known as jumper’s knee, occurs when damage has happened in the tendon that connects the bottom of the kneecap to the shin. This can be due to many things such as overuse, poor technique and sometimes running longer distances.
- Shin splints – Shin splints are felt as a pain anywhere along the top of, or the inner shin, and can occur for a variety of reasons. If you think you’re suffering from shin splints, have you tried loosening your laces on your running shoes?
Repetitive stress from pounding the pavement or crossing country on uneven surfaces, poor preparation and running form, weak muscles, and worn-out shoes can all lead to running injuries.
These injuries can turn from acute pain to a chronic injury. The sooner you seek help the sooner you can get back to the sport you love.
How Does Osteopathy Help London Runners?
This is where Osteopathy in London comes in.
Osteopaths are manual therapists providing a comprehensive approach to pain management. Osteopaths help to treat injuries in a variety of different ways. Always taking a holistic approach we look at the whole body not only focusing on the injury. That way we aim to find the root cause of the problem allowing us to help your body perform at its optimal function.
When you visit me in clinic, I will use a combination of treatment techniques to the area you’re experiencing difficulties with, but also to the surrounding areas too to ensure everything is functioning as well as it can. Consultations are patient centred, so my approach will be different for each person, taking into account your individual needs.
Some of the osteopathic techniques often used for treating runners include:
- Biomechanical assessment – by assessing a your gait and movement I aim to understand how your musculoskeletal system is affected when you move. This allows me to provide advice on improved technique where necessary.
- Soft-tissue techniques – This can range from myofascial release through to deep pressure massage to help improve blood flow and muscle tone.
- Joint mobilisations – Gentle movements of the joints in their normal directions of movement can help to improve and increase the range a joint can move through.
- Exercises – I always recommend stretches and exercises, as well as guide on running techniques and training, to help you to recover swiftly and effectively. This also helps you to prevent further injuries in the future.
Testimonial
“Alex was the first osteopath I used, being recommended by my GP. I was very grateful for the recommendation as over the course of a good few years he’s managed to sort out a couple of injuries sustained due to falls and a problem I had with my neck (a very vulnerable area). I am happy to recommend him as an excellent osteopath.”
– Sheila J, London
London Runners: Don’t Let Pain Slow You Down!
Running should not be a painful experience.
If you’re planning on starting running or you are suffering from a running injury in London, consider osteopathy as a natural and effective treatment option. Schedule an appointment at
The Osteopathy Centre in London today and get back to pounding the pavement or running the hills without pain! Our experienced osteopath will help you with a personalised treatment plan to assist you in reaching your running goals.
Don’t let pain prevent you from discovering London’s stunning running routes and achieving your running milestones.
Contact Alex Lubel at The Osteopathy Centre today to resume your pain-free running!
If your back (hips, knees or ankles) go out more often than you do call The Osteopathy Centre.