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Las Cruces: 575-222-0188
Running Assessment
What is a Running Assessment?
A running assessment is a comprehensive evaluation performed by a physical therapist or trained specialist that analyzes an individual's running biomechanics, gait, and movement patterns to identify any imbalances or inefficiencies. The primary goal of a running assessment is to optimize performance, prevent injuries, and enhance overall running efficiency. This evaluation can be beneficial for both novice and experienced runners, as it provides personalized recommendations for improvements and interventions tailored to the individual's specific needs.
Components of a Running Assessment
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Pre-assessment interview
The evaluation begins with a thorough discussion about the individual's running history, goals, training regimen, and any previous or current injuries. This information helps the therapist to gain a comprehensive understanding of the runner's background and identify potential areas of concern.
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Physical examination
A comprehensive physical examination is conducted to evaluate the runner's strength, flexibility, balance, and joint mobility. This examination helps the therapist to identify any muscle imbalances or movement restrictions that may contribute to inefficient running mechanics or injury risk.
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Gait analysis
A gait analysis is a crucial part of the assessment, where the therapist observes the runner's movement patterns while running on a treadmill or along a track. This analysis helps to identify any biomechanical abnormalities or inefficiencies in the runner's gait, such as overpronation, excessive supination, or stride length discrepancies.
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Video analysis
In conjunction with gait analysis, video analysis allows the therapist to record the runner's movement patterns from multiple angles, which can be slowed down or paused for a more detailed assessment. This technology enables the therapist to identify subtle imbalances or inefficiencies that may be difficult to detect during real-time observation.
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Footwear assessment
The therapist will assess the runner's footwear to ensure that it is appropriate for their foot type, running style, and individual biomechanics. Poorly fitted or unsuitable footwear can contribute to inefficient running mechanics and increased injury risk.
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Individualized recommendations
Based on the findings from the assessment, the therapist will provide personalized recommendations for improving running mechanics, addressing muscle imbalances or movement restrictions, and reducing injury risk. These recommendations may include a tailored strengthening and flexibility program, gait retraining, and footwear adjustments or modifications.
How Much Will the Running Assessment Cost?
Each session cost will vary based on your health insurance policy. If you are interested in learning about your physical therapy benefits, give one of our clinics in Las Cruces or Alamogordo a call, and our front desk coordinators will give you information about your benefits.
What Happens in a Running Assessment Session?
Each running assessment therapy session in Las Cruces will vary based on your particular needs. During your initial evaluation, your physical therapist will perform an assessment to determine what interventions will work best for your rehab. Your therapist will explain to you during your sessions why they are choosing each intervention, and the benefits they expect from each technique.
How Long is Each Visit?
Each physical therapy session may vary slightly in length. However, it is typically best to plan for each session to last about one hour.
If you are in need of a running assessment in Las Cruces, reach out now to get more details. We would love to help you get out of pain! Call today to schedule your appointment and we will get you scheduled with the running assessment physical therapist Las Cruces has to offer!
