A growing community of runners incorporates therapy into their workout regimen. From preventing injuries to training for races, physical therapists can assist all types of runners in staying healthy and reaching their objectives. Running therapy is a relatively unstudied practice that may offer mental health benefits. Although athletes and individuals prone to self-destructive behavior should not self-administer this therapy, it could provide beneficial effects.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is invaluable for runners of all levels, helping them prevent injuries, prepare for races, and recover from them. Physical therapists (PTs) treat various musculoskeletal issues, including knee and hip pain, plantar fasciitis, iliotibial band syndrome, sore calves, stress fractures, and more that affect the lower body.
Physical therapists (PTs) also assist runners in developing and maintaining effective training habits. This may include strength and flexibility training, determining the proper load for a runner’s body, and devising efficient yet safe running mechanics.
A physical therapist (PT) may suggest footwear, exercises, icing techniques, and orthopedic shoe inserts supporting runners’ feet and legs. These methods can reduce the risk of injuries while keeping runners healthy for years to come.
Trigger Point Therapy
Trigger Point Therapy is a form of physical therapy often utilized by runners to reduce pain and muscle tightness. A physical therapist applies pressure to release trigger points in the body and utilizes other techniques to restore normal movement, reduce discomfort, and enhance function.
Trigger points are knotted areas of muscle that feel tight and rigid. Runners often seek trigger point therapy to relieve pain in their IT bands, calf strains, or hamstring injuries.
The therapist applies pressure to the muscle repeatedly until it relaxes. This helps loosen knots in the muscle and increases blood flow, which may reduce inflammation and muscle pain.
The trigger point is within the fascia, a broad sheath-like fibrous tissue surrounding your muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones, and nerves. Fascia is normally elastic but becomes inelastic when injured due to poor posture or repetitive movement.
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Running individuals who experience anxiety, depression, stress, and other mental health conditions may benefit from therapy. Cognitive behavioral therapists work to identify negative thoughts and beliefs contributing to the issue and replace them with healthier attitudes and behaviors.
Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a widely researched form of treatment and is successful in treating various mental disorders. CBT aims at altering thoughts and behaviors to alleviate the symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, sleep issues, and more.
CBT is considered a beneficial tool for those suffering from addiction. Because CBT encourages individuals to take action and learn new coping techniques, it can give them greater hope and drive toward recovery.
When searching for a therapist, you must find one with whom you feel comfortable and secure. Consider seeking recommendations from your primary healthcare provider, friend, or family member.
Counseling
Counseling is a form of therapy that encourages individuals to discuss their problems and find solutions. Counseling also assists in creating an action plan for dealing with those issues so that people have something concrete they can follow to move forward.
Counseling can be an excellent tool for promoting mental health. It enables you to express your emotions openly and honestly with a professional. Counseling provides a secure space where one can express feelings like anger, guilt, fear, or resentment without judgment from others.
Sport psychology can help runners enhance their running programs and avoid potential injury hazards. For instance, having a detailed narrative about why you started running can motivate you to keep up with your routine even when training isn’t going as planned.
Runners should also be kind to themselves when they miss a training day or don’t reach their objectives. Remember: progress is always made incrementally, one step at a time.
If you’re interested in learning more about how therapy can benefit your running routine, visit Direct Orthopedic Therapy or contact us today to schedule an appointment with our team of specialists. We also offer mobile physical therapy services for your convenience.
