Running Program

Find a Physical Therapist in the Running Program

Visit our special running articles and tips section for expert advice for runners, by runners.

What makes our Running Program unique?

With injury incidence high among runners ranging from 26% to 92%, runners are continually seeking the best information available to stay injury free. The needs and experiences of runners vary widely, and our specialized running providers at Summit Orthopedics can help. Our running therapists tailor their treatment approach to not only alleviate your symptoms, but also guide you in safely returning to your training and accomplishing your goals, whether it be your first 5k, or setting a personal best with a marathon.

What happens in a running evaluation?

There are several components to a running evaluation depending on the presence of any injuries and your current tolerance to running. A typical running evaluation includes the following:

• 2-dimensional running video analysis to identify potential mechanical faults with running form
• Assessment of your running cadence (number of steps per minute) and implications/recommended changes
• Functional movement screen and orthopedic clinical tests as needed to identify any areas of weakness and mobility limitations
• Individualized home exercise program and general training overview
• Footwear recommendations

Our schedulers will set up two 60-minute appointments for your initial visits. This allows some flexibility to perform the treadmill portion of the running analysis on either the first or second visit depending on your unique symptom presentation and preferences. A running evaluation can also be recommended further along in the course of your physical therapy treatment, for example when you are cleared to return to running following a surgical procedure.

What are the benefits?

• Address mechanical faults with your running form to improve efficiency and reduce future injury
• Improve existing muscular and mobility imbalances
• Gain knowledge regarding appropriate footwear, dynamic warm up activities, cadence, and general training information

Who is it recommended for?

• Beneficial for both experienced and novice runners
• Runners who are looking for guidance to resume running (or continue to run) following a lower extremity injury
• Those looking to prevent future running-related injuries

How is video used?

Our therapists will look at your running form using a video camera or iPad. Most running assessments include 2-dimensional video running on a treadmill that captures 3 views: front, back, and side.

Should I bring my running shoes to my evaluation?

It is important to bring the shoes you typically run in to your appointment as your physical therapist will want to evaluate whether the shoe is appropriate given your running form and any current injuries. If you use orthotics in your running shoes, it is helpful to bring those as well.

What makes the therapists experts in running?

• Experience treating runners of all levels firsthand in the clinic
• Those specializing in the treatment of runners have taken advanced continuing education courses to further their skillset when working with this population. These courses include:
  • Most up-to-date research regarding exercise and hands on treatment approaches
  • Instruction in running analysis identifying mechanical faults
  • Recommendations to improve running mechanics
  • Footwear recommendations
• Many of our running therapists enjoy running themselves and can relate to your experience

Is a running evaluation an out of pocket service or covered under some insurances?

• A running analysis is often covered under insurance plans when it is part of your overall physical therapy plan of care, such as when you are seeking treatment to rehabilitate from a lower extremity injury or surgery.
• If you are seeking a running analysis for injury prevention at the HealthEast Sports Center clinic, this is a cash-based service.

Scheduling your Running Evaluation

• If you have been referred for a running analysis by a Summit physician and are recovering from an injury or surgery, our central scheduling line will assist you in setting up your initial appointments. Summit physical therapists specializing in running analyses are available at each PT location: HealthEast Sports Center, Eagan, Midway/St. Paul, Vadnais Heights, and Woodlake. If you are currently unable to run due to an injury, you can start with another member of our PT team and then be referred to a running therapist once you are ready to start a return to running program.
• If you are seeking a running analysis for injury prevention (no specific current injuries present requiring treatment), you may schedule through our wellness services located at the HealthEast Sports Center clinic: 651-968-5766

Additional Running Video Resources:

• What do you recommend for hydration when running? 
• What do you think about minimal shoes and barefoot running?
• When should I see a doctor for running injury?
• How do I know when pain is normal from running versus a sign of injury?
• How do I prepare for my first 5K? 
• How can I avoid Shin Splints?
• How long should I rest after a race?
• What are common knee injuries for runners?
• When and how should I stretch?
• What should I do if I have a minor injury?
• When should I consider an insert or orthotic?
• What are signs I am training too much?
• What are the signs of heat illness?
• What types of cross training are most beneficial for runners?
• How can my stride impact risk for injury?