Physical Therapy for Runners in New York City by Vikash, DPT
Physical Therapy for Runners FAQ
- What are the most common running injuries you treat?
- I frequently treat shin splints, runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain), IT band syndrome, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinitis, stress fractures, and various hip and lower back pains.
- Do I need to stop running completely if I have pain?
- Not always. A physical therapist can assess your pain and often provide strategies to modify your running, or suggest cross-training, allowing you to stay active while you heal.
- How does physical therapy for runners differ from general physical therapy?
- I specialize in running-specific assessments, including gait analysis, and design exercise programs that directly enhance running performance, efficiency, and injury prevention.
- How can physical therapy help me prevent running injuries?
- I identify subtle muscle imbalances, weaknesses, and faulty movement patterns before they cause injury, then prescribe targeted exercises and form adjustments to build a more resilient runner.
- What happens during a physical therapy assessment for a runner?
- I‘ll take a detailed history of your pain and training, perform a comprehensive physical exam (strength, flexibility, balance), and often conduct a video gait analysis to observe your running form.
- How long does recovery typically take for running injuries?
- Recovery time varies greatly depending on the injury’s severity and how long it’s been present. Mild issues might resolve in a few weeks, while complex conditions like stress fractures or persistent tendinopathy can take months.
- Why are you a cash based physical therapist?
- By not accepting insurance, our treatment is not dictated by the rules and regulations of insurance companies. Therefore, we can provide you with the high-quality one-on-one care that you deserve.
- Can I submit to my insurance for reimbursement?
- INSERT APPROPRIATE TEXT HERE.
- Can physical therapy help me run faster or more efficiently?
- Absolutely! By optimizing your strength, flexibility, and running form, PT can significantly enhance your running economy, allowing you to maintain speed with less effort and improve overall performance.
- When can I safely return to running after an injury?
- I use a gradual, progressive return-to-run program, often starting with a walk/run protocol. I’ll clear you to return when your body demonstrates the necessary strength and control, minimizing re-injury risk.
Runner’s Knee • Shin Splints • Plantar Fasciitis • Achilles Tendinitis • IT Band Syndrome
“I would rate the Perfect Stride Physical Therapy team higher than 5 stars if I could. As a professional runner that struggled with injuries for about 3 years, I can honestly say that meeting Vikash and the Perfect Stride team has been a game changer in my career. Now that I am running healthy with their help, I still have weekly check-ups to make sure I am doing the proper rehab...and not just rehab”
– Mary Cain, Professional Runner
World Junior Champion (3000m), USA Track & Field Champion (1500m)
Vikash Sharma, DPT, OCS, COMT, CFSC
32 Union Square East
New York, NY 10003
BY APPOINTMENT ONLY