GOrendezvous's well-being blog

Running: 5 Common Injuries

Written by Nxt Generation PHYSIO | Sep 24, 2025 5:54:20 PM

Running is an accessible, stimulating sport that benefits both cardiovascular and mental health. Whether you're just starting out or chasing a personal best, every runner will eventually deal with an injury. Some pains are temporary, but others can slow your progress, hurt your motivation, or force you to stop altogether. Fortunately, physiotherapy can make all the difference.

At Nxt Generation PHYSIO, our physiotherapists with experience in running care for hundreds of runners each year (from beginners to advanced) by helping them prevent injuries, recover from them, and safely return to running. Here are the 5 most common running injuries—and how physiotherapy can help you run longer, without pain.


1. Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (pain at the front of the knee)

Symptoms: Pain around or behind the kneecap, especially when going downstairs or after long runs.

Common causes: Hip weakness, poor biomechanics, overuse.

How physio can help:

  • Assess your running pattern

  • Address muscular imbalances

  • Prescribe exercises to strengthen the hips and stabilize the kneecap

2. Shin Splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)

Symptoms: Diffuse pain along the inner shin, especially at the start or end of a run.

Common causes: Sudden increase in volume, worn-out shoes, poor technique.

How physio can help:



 

3. Plantar Fasciitis

Symptoms: Sharp heel pain, especially in the morning or after rest.

Common causes: Overload, tight calves, stiff or worn shoes.

How physio can help:

4. Achilles Tendinopathy

Symptoms: Pain or stiffness in the Achilles tendon, often in the morning or at the start of activity.

Common causes: Repetitive overload, weak calves, poor recovery.

How physio can help:

  • Progressive strengthening program

  • Local treatment (manual therapy, shockwave, etc.)

  • Training load recommendations

5. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (pain on the side of the knee)

Symptoms: Pain on the outer side of the knee, especially going downhill or after a certain distance.

Common causes: Weak glutes, pelvic instability, faulty running mechanics.

How physio can help:

Why see a physiotherapist?

Whether you’re dealing with persistent pain or looking to prevent injuries, consulting a physiotherapist with experience in running is a great first step. At Nxt Generation PHYSIO, we offer a personalized approach that includes:

  • Running technique analysis

  • Targeted exercises based on your needs

  • Manual therapy

  • Guidance on training progression, shoe selection, and recovery

👉 Learn more about our specific approach for runners:
https://nxtgphysio.com/traitement-course/

 

About Nxt Generation PHYSIO

Nxt Generation PHYSIO is a sports physiotherapy clinic based in Montreal, focused on the treatment and prevention of running, triathlon, combat sport, and functional training injuries. Our team supports both elite athletes and recreational movers who want to move better, stronger, and pain-free.


📍 Our clinics are located in Montreal, as well as on the South Shore and North Shore. For more information, visit our website: nxtgphysio.com.