As the weather warms up, more people are getting back into running. Whether you’re training for a race or just getting active again, it’s common to experience pain when your body isn’t fully prepared for the sudden increase in load. The good news? Most running injuries are treatable and preventable with the right care.
Here are some of the most common spring running injuries we see at Avita Health, what they feel like, and how physiotherapy and chiropractic care can help.
Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Runner’s knee is one of the most common issues for both new and experienced runners. It typically presents as a dull, aching pain around or behind the kneecap, especially during activities like running, squatting, or going up and down stairs. Runner’s knee is usually not caused by one single injury, but rather repetitive stress and poor movement patterns over time. Things like muscle imbalances, joint restrictions, or alignment issues can all contribute.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are another common spring injury, especially when people suddenly increase running volume. They usually feel like aching or tightness along the front of the lower leg, often worsening during or after activity. Shin Splints are typically caused by overuse and repetitive impact, especially when your body isn’t fully adapted to the load. Poor biomechanics, footwear, or tight/overworked muscles can all play a role as well.
IT Band Syndrome
This is a common cause of outer knee pain, especially in runners who increase mileage too quickly. The IT band (a thick band of tissue along the outside of the thigh) can become irritated due to repetitive friction and poor hip or knee mechanics.
Plantar Fasciitis
If you’re feeling heel pain, especially in the morning or after running, plantar fasciitis may be the cause. This condition involves irritation of the tissue along the bottom of the foot, often due to overload, poor foot mechanics, or tight surrounding structures.
Achilles Tendinopathy
Pain or stiffness in the back of the ankle, especially first thing in the morning or at the start of a run, can point to Achilles issues. Like many running injuries, this is typically due to overuse and inadequate adaptation to load.
How Physiotherapy & Chiropractic Can Help
Most running injuries come down to how your body is moving and handling load, not just the area where you feel pain. At Avita Health in North Vancouver, we can help you with:
- Physiotherapy: focused on improving strength, mobility, and movement patterns to address the underlying issue
- Chiropractic care: helps restore proper joint alignment and reduce unnecessary strain on your body
- Hands-on treatment: to relieve tight, irritated tissues and support faster recovery
The goal isn’t just to get you out of pain, but rather to help you run stronger, move better, and prevent future injuries.
Ready to book your appointment? Please call the clinic at 604-980-4491 or visit this link.