Running a marathon requires a lot of hard work, training, and dedication. Like all athletes, marathon runners are susceptible to injury. Physical therapy is a great treatment option when injuries do occur, and even as a preventative strategy. This physical therapy education article focuses on the benefits of physical therapy for marathon runners.
Common Conditions & Injuries Among Marathon Runners
Marathon runners face a long list of potential injuries and conditions. Here are a few of the most common:
- Shin splints
- Ankle sprains
- Knee injuries to the ACL, MCL, Meniscus, etc.
- Achilles tendon injuries
- Muscle spasms
- Repetitive stress injuries
Marathon Runners & Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment method for all of the above listed conditions that commonly plague marathon runners. Many marathon runners can also benefit from working with a physical therapist before an injury occurs. A physical therapist can evaluate your performance and identify any weakness areas that may put you at risk of injury. Using this knowledge, your physical therapist can work with you to develop an exercise strategy to address these weaknesses and help you avoid injury. Thus, it’s often a good practice to incorporate physical therapy into your marathon training.
MN Physical Therapists
If you are in need of a physical therapist in Minnesota, look no further than OrthoRehab Specialists. Our physical therapists have been practicing in the state of Minnesota for over twenty-five years. We partner with more than 600 local surgeons and physicians who refer their patients to our experts when needed. If you don’t have a referral, you can also make an appointment with us via direct access. With clinics located in Edina and downtown Minneapolis, we are conveniently located to provide unparalleled physical therapy care to patients throughout the Twin Cities.