Running Injury Physiotherapy in Joondanna and Moora
CLINICAL REVIEW DETAILS
Clinically reviewed by: Nick Nyman, Senior Musculoskeletal Physio
Last reviewed: August 2026
Profile link: Read Nick’s Bio
Load, strength and returning to running
Most running injuries are influenced by a mismatch between current tissue capacity and recent running load rather than one single technical fault. Physiotherapy can help identify the irritated structure, modify training without unnecessary complete rest and rebuild capacity for a durable return.
What are common running injuries?
Runners may develop pain involving the knee, Achilles tendon, calf, shin, foot, hip, hamstring or lower back. Some presentations are relatively straightforward overload problems, while others, particularly bone stress injuries, require early recognition and greater caution.
Why do running injuries happen?
A common pattern is a rapid change in total distance, speed, hills, frequency or surface. Recovery, sleep, illness, nutrition, strength, previous injury and non-running activity also affect how much load the body can tolerate. Running technique can matter, but no single style is correct for everyone. A useful assessment examines whether a particular feature meaningfully increases symptoms or load for that runner rather than changing technique for appearance alone.
What may a running assessment include?
ASSESSMENT MAY INCLUDE:
A detailed review of weekly distance, intensity, recent increases and recovery
Clinical examination of the painful area and screening for bone or nerve involvement
Strength and capacity testing relevant to the injury
Observation of running when it is likely to change management
A planned running modification rather than a vague instruction to rest
Can I keep running?
Sometimes. The answer depends on the diagnosis, severity and symptom response. A runner with mild tendon-related pain may continue a modified amount, while a suspected bone stress injury should not be run through.
When running is temporarily reduced, cycling, swimming or another form of exercise may help maintain fitness if medically appropriate. The rehabilitation plan should preserve as much activity as safely possible.
Returning to running
A return-to-running program usually controls frequency, duration and intensity before adding hills, speed and competition.
Progress is based on symptoms during the run, the response later that day and the following morning, and whether strength and impact capacity are improving. Rehabilitation should eventually prepare you for your real goal, whether that is a comfortable five kilometres, trail running, field sport or marathon training.
What role does footwear play?
Comfort, fit, injury history and the demands of training are generally more useful than choosing shoes by foot shape alone. Abruptly changing to a very different shoe can itself alter load. Shoes can support a plan, but they do not replace appropriate training progression and rehabilitation.
When should you seek urgent medical care?
SEEK URGENT ASSESSMENT IF YOU EXPERIENCE
Focal bone pain, pain at rest or at night, or pain that worsens with hopping, which may indicate a bone stress injury
Inability to put weight through the leg, major swelling or deformity after an acute injury
Calf swelling, redness or unexplained shortness of breath
Progressive numbness, weakness or loss of coordination
General health symptoms such as fever or unexplained weight loss
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Not always. Some conditions tolerate modified running, while others require complete unloading. Diagnosis and symptom behaviour should guide the decision.
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It can be useful when running mechanics are likely to affect symptoms or guide retraining, but it should sit within a broader clinical and training-load assessment.
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There is no universal percentage that suits every runner. Progress should reflect your recent baseline, injury, recovery and response to each increase.
Common Questions
Return to running with a plan
If pain is interrupting your running, book an assessment at Wattle Physio in Joondanna and Moora.
