Osteopathy for Runners Osteopathy for Running Injuries Running has many health benefits; improved overall fitness and cardiovascular health, weight loss, increased body strength, and improved mental health and wellbeing. However, it can also take its toll on the body, with runners commonly suffering from a range of minor to more serious injuries. Osteopaths are keen to promote safe and healthy running and to aid performance at all levels and ages and often work alongside other health care professionals such as physios. We can treat of many running injuries, including: Patellafemoral Pain Syndrome (Runners knee) Iliotibial band syndrome Shin splints Plantar fasciitis Achilles tendonitis Muscular / ligament strains and tears Low back, shoulder and neck pain What can Osteopathy do to treat my running injuries and improve my overall running performance? Whether you’re a seasoned marathon runner or a casual jogger, the impact of running on your body is undeniable. Despite the numerous benefits of this cardiovascular exercise, the repetitive stress on muscles and joints often leads to aches, pains, and potential injuries. This is where osteopathy, a holistic approach to healthcare, can be very useful for runners. Runners frequently encounter specific challenges, such as joint pain, overuse injuries, sprains, and strains. Osteopaths collaborate with runners by conducting comprehensive assessments to pinpoint areas of concern and develop personalised management plans. These plans incorporate various techniques, including manual adjustments, soft tissue work, and tailored exercises. Their aim is not just to alleviate symptoms but also to enhance overall performance. Osteopaths view the body as a whole, recognising that optimal function requires a harmonious relationship among every component of the musculoskeletal system. For runners, this approach entails addressing not only the symptoms but also the root causes of pain, dysfunction, and injuries. One of the fundamental advantages of osteopathy lies in its ability to assess and treat the entire musculoskeletal system, promoting balance and preventing future issues. Book Online Our patients are continuously surprised that even with knee pain, we will examine the whole body; especially the foot, ankle, hip, pelvis and low back. Addressing muscular imbalances and skeletal joint restrictions is imperative in returning runners back to optimum health. With running injuries, we often find imbalances in the pelvis which can change the way you distribute load through the legs, causing overloading of different joints or muscles. Have you ever asked yourself ‘why is my right iliotibial band strained and not my left, or why does my right knee hurt and not my left?’ There is always an underlying reason for this, and this is why our osteopaths will explore the entire skeletal system to identify the reason for the imbalance and restriction. These can be corrected with osteopathic treatment and rehabilitation.We are keen to support runners at every stage of their journey. Whether you’re a beginner striving for your first 5K or an ultra-marathon runner, our osteopathic approach is crafted to optimise your body’s mechanics, function, flexibility, and strength while preventing injuries. Our team of osteopaths are ACC approved service providers and we can refer our patients for further imaging (X-rays, Ultra-sound) or to a specialist, if required. In summary, osteopathy offers a comprehensive solution for runners seeking to optimise their performance and well-being. By addressing mobility, strength, and function, providing pain relief, and focusing on injury prevention, osteopathic care becomes a valuable tool for those dedicated to achieving their running goals while prioritising their body’s overall health.
