From casual runners to seasoned marathoners, knee pain is a common ailment among runners. This comes as no surprise since running inevitably puts varying degrees of repetitive stress on the knees.
However, your Montrose chiropractor is here to help. We can help get to the root cause of the problem, sending you on your way toward your goals and beyond. So, let’s explore how chiropractic care can address knee pain and help you get back to running pain-free.
Why Does Knee Pain Happen When Running?
Knee pain after running can stem from several conditions, such as patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), iliotibial band syndrome (ITBS), and meniscus injuries, among others. These issues are often related to misalignments or dysfunctions in the musculoskeletal system — not just in the knee itself but also in the hips, ankles, and feet, which can affect knee health.
How Can a Chiropractor Help?
Your chiropractor will begin with a thorough examination to diagnose the root cause of your knee pain. This might include assessing your posture, gait analysis, and the alignment of your spine and lower extremities. This can help identify subluxations; misalignments in the spine or extremities can contribute to knee pain by affecting your gait and the way forces are distributed through your body when you run.
From here, we come up with a treatment plan suited to you and your body’s needs. This may include:
- Chiropractic Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can help realign your spine and joints, reducing stress on your knees.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Techniques such as myofascial release or trigger point therapy can help relieve tight muscles and connective tissues that might be contributing to your knee pain. These therapies can improve flexibility and decrease strain on the knee joint.
- Corrective Exercises: Your chiropractor can recommend specific exercises to strengthen the muscles around your knees and improve your overall biomechanics. Strengthening the hips, core, and ankle muscles can help stabilize your knees and prevent future injuries.
- Gait Analysis and Running Advice: Sometimes, the way you run can contribute to knee pain. Your chiropractor can analyze your running gait and suggest modifications to your technique or footwear to help alleviate stress on your knees.
- Lifestyle and Nutritional Guidance: Overall wellness plays a role in healing and prevention. Your chiropractor may offer advice on nutrition and lifestyle changes that can support your body’s healing process and improve your running performance.
Discover the Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Runners Today!
Chiropractic care can help runners thwart pain and accelerate recovery time related to running injuries. Not only that, but chiropractic care offers a holistic, non-invasive approach that focuses on the whole person (not just the symptoms!).
The truth is that knee pain doesn’t have to become your new norm. With the help of your Montrose chiropractor, you can address the underlying causes of your pain, improve your running mechanics, and get back to hitting the trails or pavement without discomfort.
Remember, early intervention is key to preventing more serious injuries, so don’t wait to seek care if you’re experiencing knee pain. At New Life Chiropractic, we’re ready to help. Contact us today to book your appointment.
