The Running Clinic
About the clinic
I treated a few runners in my practice when I started out, but I could sense a reluctance, distrust maybe. I then read a quote by Prof. Tim Noakes, well known running doctor in South Africa; “never trust the opinion of a non-runner, medical or otherwise”.
So, to become a podiatrist trusted by runners I had start running. I set my sights on a half marathon and after completing it I could see there was a bit of warming toward me but the feeling I got was that to really understand running, I had to run a marathon.
Twenty years and more than 40 marathons and ultra-marathons later, I really do feel like a runner. I have a passion for running and, the treatment and prevention of running injuries.
Sometimes all you’ll need is the correct shoe. Maybe an insole modification or even a pair of full custom orthotics.
At the Running Clinic, I will discuss your running, do a full biomechanical assessment as well as video running analysis. Whether you have one of the “Big Five” or just keep losing toenails, if your running injury has a shoe or insole-based solution, we will find it.
Runner's Knee
By far the most common, Runner’s knee can account for as much as 40% of all running injuries. Quite a broad term, Runner’s Knee can be used to describe a range of knee conditions described as patellofemoral pain syndrome. A significant part of treatment is to correctly align your knees using the right shoes and/or prescription insoles.
ITB
Short for Illio Tibial Band Friction Syndrome, this nasty menace can really ruin your day. ITB presents as an extremely painful stabbing pain on the outside of the knee and is a sure sign of some biomechanical problem somewhere along the line. Treat it with exercises, stretching and of course, check that you’re in the right shoes!
Plantar Fasciitis
Possibly the most common foot pain of all, plantar fasciitis has stopped many a runner in their tracks. Every clinician will have their own favourite method for attacking this monster but there is no doubt that the correct shoes and prescription orthotics can make a big difference.
Shin Splints
It’s only fair to show this injury some respect and call it by its full names: Tibial Periostitis or Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome. Call it what you like, Shin Splints will bring your running to an abrupt halt. Can be caused by overuse, incorrect training techniques and, worn out or incorrect running shoes.
Achilles Tendinopathy
The biggest, strongest tendon in the body, the Achilles tendon connects two major muscles to the heel bone. When put under strain it can quickly become inflamed and painful and can also become a long-term problem. Help prevent or treat this debilitating injury with the correct running shoes and/or prescription orthotics/insoles.
Running shoe advice
We’ve all stood in front of the display at the local running store: A bewildering array of brightly coloured shoes with no idea where to begin. Minimalist or maximalist? Neutral, stability or motion control? What about width, toe box shape, stack height or heel-toe drop. These terms and more only add to the confusion. Not to mention the flood of unsolicited advice from experts such as your 2nd cousin’s best friend who apparently is a runner!
I have been helping runners find the correct shoe for 20 years and have put together a 45-minute assessment that should clear away the distractions and help you find the perfect match.
At your Running Shoe appointment, we’ll start with chatting about your running. Let’s get a picture of where you are now and what your goals are for the future. We’ll do a full biomechanical assessment which will include examining your old pair of shoes. Used running shoes are a crime scene that deserve expert forensic analysis! Next, we will take videos of your walking and running, slow them down and get an accurate picture of what happens during each phase of the gait cycle. Once all is said and done, you will leave with a short list of suitable shoes, in the correct size and width to keep you moving!
….. and if you need running orthotics:
Please check our Musculoskeletal Assessment with Orthotics
Pricing
- 60 Minutes appointment
- Video gait analysis
- Lower limb biomechanical assessment
- Injury Diagnosis
Our Patient Reviews
“Thanks to Chris for helping to keep me injury free; best running orthotics ever”.
Tanith Maxwell, Olympian.
