Running Assessment in Melbourne
Expert Physio Running Analysis for Injury Prevention
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we understand the importance of keeping runners’ injury-free and performing at their best. The best running assessments are designed to identify potential issues in your running technique and biomechanics before they lead to injury. Using state-of-the-art gait analysis and biomechanical assessments, our expert physiotherapists offer personalised solutions to prevent injuries, improve efficiency, and enhance overall performance and start running smarter, not harder.
What is a Physiotherapy Running Assessment?
A physiotherapy running assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy is a vital evaluation designed to identify issues in your running form and biomechanics that could lead to injuries. We use advanced gait analysis and biomechanical testing to assess key factors such as posture, stride, and muscle imbalances. This analysis helps prevent injuries like runner's knee, shin splints, and Achilles tendon pain.
Whether you’re looking to improve performance or prevent injuries, a running injury prevention assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy is a proactive approach to addressing underlying issues. We provide personalised recommendations and tailored strategies based on your unique biomechanics, helping you run more efficiently and safely.
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Why Runners Choose Keilor Road Physiotherapy for Their Running Assessments
At Keilor Road Physiotherapy, we offer a comprehensive, data-driven approach to running assessments that combines expert physiotherapy with state-of-the-art equipment to help you improve your performance and prevent injuries. Here’s why we’re the top choice for runners in Melbourne:
Expert Physiotherapist Robbie Webb: Robbie Webb, our running assessment physiotherapist, has completed the Melbourne Marathon seven times, including a sub 3 hour finish, placing him in the top 1% of marathon finishers. His experience as an elite runner means he understands the unique challenges runners face.
Cutting-Edge Rehabilitation Gym: Our on-site rehabilitation gym is equipped with Precor gym equipment, a Life Fitness treadmill, and advanced tools for running performance analysis, including a real-time video analysis, provides a comprehensive environment for your assessment.
AxIT Strength Assessment System: Using the AxIT Strength Assessment System, we evaluate your strength and muscle imbalances to create a personalised rehabilitation plan focused on injury prevention and performance optimisation.
Comprehensive Injury Prevention and Performance Enhancement: We focus on not only assessing your gait and biomechanics but also developing tailored rehabilitation programs to help you run more safely and efficiently.
What to Expect from Your Running Assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy
During your personalised running assessment, our expert physiotherapists will perform a thorough evaluation to assess your running mechanics and identify areas for improvement. Here’s what you can expect:
Expert Evaluation by Robbie Webb: Robbie’s extensive experience means he can tailor the assessment to your specific goals, whether you're an elite athlete or a recreational runner.
Detailed Gait Analysis: Using advanced gait analysis techniques, we assess foot strike, stride length, lower limb biomechanics and posture to identify any inefficiencies.
Footwear Assessment: We’ll conduct a thorough footwear analysis to make sure you’re wearing the correct shoes for your foot-type, running style and distance of choice. You can read more about what are the best running shoes here.
Biomechanical Testing: We assess muscle imbalances and joint mobility to pinpoint weaknesses or misalignments that may be affecting your performance or increasing injury risk. This may include use of our AxIT Strength Assessment System and onsite state of the art rehabilitation gym.
Personalised Recommendations: After your assessment, you will receive a customised rehabilitation plan which may contain some hands on treatment, strengthening exercises, stretching routines, and injury prevention strategies to help you run safely and efficiently.
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Injury Prevention with Running Assessments
Our running injury assessments are designed to help you prevent injuries by identifying biomechanical issues early on. Injuries we’re able to prevent or rehabilitate:
Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome)
Shin splints are a common overuse injury causing pain along the shinbone, often triggered by repetitive impact or poor running form. This condition is frequently seen in runners, leading to discomfort in the front or inside of the lower leg.Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
Runner’s knee refers to pain around the kneecap, commonly caused by misalignment, overuse, or improper movement patterns during running. This condition often leads to discomfort and inflammation in the knee joint.Achilles Tendinopathy
Achilles tendon pain involves inflammation or degeneration of the Achilles tendon, often due to repetitive stress or overuse. Runners are particularly susceptible to this condition, which causes pain and stiffness in the lower leg near the heel.IT Band Syndrome (Iliotibial Band Syndrome)
ITB friction syndrome causes pain on the outside of the knee and is commonly associated with tightness in the iliotibial band, often linked to muscle imbalances in the hip and thigh and involving a small bursa on the outside of the knee. This condition is prevalent in long-distance runners and athletes.Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fascia pain or plantar fasciopathy is an overuse injury causing sharp pain at the bottom of the foot, typically near the heel. It is often triggered by repeated stress, especially in runners, and is commonly associated with tight calf muscles and improper footwear.Hamstring Strains
Hamstring strains or tears occur when the muscles at the back of the thigh are overstretched or torn. This injury is common in runners, especially during activities involving sudden acceleration or deceleration, causing pain and limited mobility in the thigh.Tibialis Posterior Tendinopathy
Tibialis posterior tendinopathy is an overuse injury that affects the tibialis posterior tendon, which supports the arch of the foot. This condition causes pain and swelling along the inside of the ankle and can lead to difficulty with walking or running.
Stress Fractures
Stress reactions or fractures are tiny cracks in bones, often caused by repetitive impact and overuse. In runners, stress fractures typically affect the foot or shin area and can result in significant pain and a need for off-loading the lower limb during recovery. Runners, especially those training on hard surfaces or increasing mileage too quickly, are at risk for developing stress fractures in the lower leg.Knee Tendonitis (Patellar Tendinopathy or Jumpers Knee)
Knee tendonitis, or patellar tendinopathy, also known as Jumpers Knee, involves inflammation of the tendon connecting the quadriceps muscles to the shinbone, causing pain and tenderness at the front of the knee. This condition often results from repetitive stress or overuse in running activities.Hip Flexor Strain
Hip flexor strains occur when the muscles in the front of the hip are overstretched or torn, often due to sudden movements or intense running activities. This injury leads to pain and stiffness in the hip area and can limit running performance.Calf Tears
Calf strains involve overstretching or tearing of the muscles in the back of the lower leg, leading to pain and weakness. Common in runners, this injury can occur from sudden increases in running intensity or improper warm-ups.Muscle Imbalances
Muscle imbalances refer to discrepancies in muscle strength and flexibility, which often contribute to running injuries like shin splints or ITB friction syndrome. These imbalances can cause inefficient running mechanics and lead to discomfort or pain.
Who Should Get a Running Assessment?
A running assessment is beneficial for runners of all levels, whether you’re a seasoned athlete or just starting out. Here’s who should consider booking a running assessment:
Runners Experiencing Pain or Discomfort: If you’re dealing with pain such as shin splints, runner’s knee, or Achilles tendinopathy, a running injury assessment can help identify the root cause of your discomfort and prevent further injury.
Runners Recovering from Injury: If you’ve recently recovered from a running injury and want to ensure a safe return to running, a running assessment can identify any remaining muscle imbalances or weaknesses that could lead to re-injury.
Competitive Athletes Seeking Performance Enhancement: If you're training for a race or aiming to improve your running times, a running performance assessment can help optimize your form and make your running more efficient, ultimately improving your race results.
Recreational Runners Looking to Prevent Injury: Even if you’re not experiencing pain, a running assessment can help prevent future injuries by improving your form and identifying potential weaknesses or inefficiencies in your biomechanics.
Beginners or New Runners: If you're new to running, a running assessment is a great way to learn proper running techniques, avoid common mistakes, and set yourself up for long-term success with a safe and efficient running form.
Runners Looking to Improve Efficiency: If you want to make your runs feel easier and improve endurance, a gait analysis as part of a running assessment can identify areas to improve, such as stride length or posture, to help you run with less fatigue.
Whether you’re facing an injury or simply want to improve your performance, a running assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy provides valuable insights to help you run smarter, safer, and faster.
How Much Does a Running Assessment Cost?
Our Running Assessment is a comprehensive, 1:1 physiotherapy session lasting approximately 1 hour, priced at $315. Depending on your level of coverage, you may be eligible to claim part of the cost through your private health insurance. We recommend confirming your eligibility with your insurer before your appointment to ensure coverage.
What to Bring to Your Running Assessment
To ensure a smooth and effective running assessment, bring the following:
Running Shoes: We’ll conduct a footwear analysis to assess whether your shoes are providing the right support.
Comfortable Clothing: Wear athletic clothing that allows for easy movement during the assessment.
Running Routine History: Provide details of your running routine, including frequency, surfaces, and past injuries.
Injury History: Share any ongoing pain or injury details to help us tailor your assessment.
Previous Assessments or Reports: If available, bring previous physiotherapy assessments, imaging reports, or medical records.
Book Your Personalised Running Assessment Today
Ready to take your running to the next level? Book your personalised running assessment at Keilor Road Physiotherapy today. Located in Niddrie, we proudly serve Keilor, Essendon, Airport West, and surrounding areas. Get expert physiotherapy care, tailored injury prevention strategies, and running performance insights to help you run smarter, safer, and stronger.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can a running assessment help with my performance if I’m not injured? Yes! A running assessment is not only for injury prevention, but it can also help improve your running performance. By optimising your gait, stride, and biomechanics, we can help you run more efficiently, which can lead to improved endurance, speed, and reduced fatigue during runs.
2. How often should I get a running assessment? We recommend getting a running assessment at least once a year, or whenever you’re experiencing a change in your performance or an increase in injury risk. If you’re training for a specific event or facing ongoing issues, more frequent assessments may be beneficial to ensure that you’re on track and minimising injury risks.
3. Is a running assessment suitable for beginners? Absolutely! A running assessment is perfect for beginners who want to learn proper technique and avoid injuries from the start. Our physiotherapists will help you establish a solid foundation, ensuring that your running form is efficient and safe as you progress in your training.
4. Can I still run during the rehabilitation process? Yes, in most cases, you will be able to continue running during your rehabilitation. We’ll provide personalised exercises and modifications to help you gradually return to running while reducing the risk of re-injury. The goal is to strengthen weak areas and improve your form to prevent future injuries.
5. What if I have a pre-existing injury? If you have a pre-existing injury, we’ll incorporate it into your running injury assessment. Our physiotherapists will evaluate how your injury affects your running form and provide tailored solutions to rehabilitate the injury and prevent further complications. We'll ensure that your rehabilitation plan accommodates your injury and keeps you moving forward.