How Can Runners Keep Their Knees Healthy?

If you are a runner, you know that keeping your knees in good shape is of the utmost importance. Without them, moving around becomes much more difficult. If you already have knee pain, getting physical therapy Shelby Township MI is a crucial step to keeping your knees healthy and getting you back on your feet. Empower Physical Therapy can treat all your running-related pain. 

Common Knee Injuries Caused By Running

Contrary to popular belief, running itself is not bad for your knees. Runners aren’t at risk of increased arthritis rates. However, that doesn’t mean runners are entirely immune from injuries. Improper form can cause injuries as well. To avoid knee pain, wear supportive shoes and run on soft, even surfaces. Luckily, physical therapy Shelby Township MI can help cure your injury and reduce your recovery time. Some common knee injuries runners get include:

  • Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome: Also known as runner’s knee, patellofemoral pain syndrome is when the kneecap can’t glide over the thighbone properly, causing pain.
  • IT Band Syndrome: If you notice a sharp pain above your knee, you probably have IT band syndrome. Your IT band starts at your hip and ends at your shin. When it tightens due to overuse or strain, it can become inflamed and cause pain.
  • Patellar Tendinitis: Patellar tendinitis is also commonly known as jumper’s knee. When the patellar tendon in your knee becomes inflamed, it can cause pain in the front of the knee or at the lower kneecap. Runners who run downhill often or participate in sports that require you to start and stop a lot are the most likely to get jumper’s knee.  

If you have any of the injuries mentioned previously, physical therapy Shelby Township MI has been proven to be effective in relieving pain and reducing your total recovery time!

How Physical Therapy Shelby Township MI Can Help

At Empower Physical Therapy, our physical therapists are trained to treat many kinds of sports injuries, including knee injuries. During your physical therapy appointment, our physical therapists will help you perform stretches that will strengthen your knee and reduce your pain. Visit our website to learn more about how Empower Physical Therapy can help you keep your knees healthy!