Each day as a Podiatrist, we help regular runners who are experiencing running-related injuries.
Being both Podiatrists and runners, we understand why patients put themselves through the pain and hardship involved with long distance running. This understanding helps us formulate better treatment plans which ensure our patients can achieve their running goals, as well as continue to manage their foot and ankle health.
Up to 70% of competitive and recreational runners get injured in the course of a 12 month training year. With the foot being the contact point with the ground, a high portion of these injuries end up in the foot and ankle. Dealing specifically with foot and ankle injuries makes a Podiatrist an important part of the healthcare team for a runner. Podiatrists can ensure patients are able to continue to train, while minimizing and treating running-related foot and ankle injuries.
Being an avid runner and training for events such as the Werribee Mansion Half Marathon, the Great Ocean Road Marathon and a number of other local events, we understand what it takes to train for and execute a good running race. One of the best predictors for having an enjoyable and successful running event is consistency: consistent training during training blocks is vital for a successful race. As runners, we miss out on runs for a variety of reasons – time, family, social commitments, illness, and injury.
Injury is one of the most common reasons for missing large chunks of running; for injuries that aren’t well managed, it is not uncommon to miss multiple weeks of training. This leads to a loss of valuable fitness and conditioning and will almost definitely lead to a harder, slower and less enjoyable race.
One of the highest priorities for a runner should be managing running-related injuries. Running in pain is not a fun experience. Despite many injuries requiring time and patience, they can be managed while training continues. This may mean altering a training plan and training in some level of discomfort. However, we always strive to give you the best chance of reaching your goal event in the best possible condition to have the best experience.
Managing pain and injuries in the foot and ankle is done by creating a custom treatment plan for each of our runners.
Our Podiatrists have a range of therapies that can be a great way to manage pain and injuries:
- Shockwave Therapy
- Dry Needling
- Strength and conditioning
- Gait and running assessment
- Accurate diagnosis of foot and ankle concerns
- Access to imaging like X-ray, Ultrasound and MRi scans
- Injection therapy
- Custom orthotics
- CAM boots
- Footwear advice
If you’re a runner with a foot or ankle concern, book an appointment online today!
