Returning to Running: Biomechanical Analysis in Physiotherapy to Prevent Injuries

Getting back into running after a break or at the start of the season can be more challenging than it seems. You may experience pain in your knees, hips, or ankles, or notice that your muscles fatigue more quickly than usual.

Biomechanical analysis in physiotherapy, performed by physiotherapists at AMS clinics in Montreal and Dorval, helps identify specific imbalances and implement a tailored approach to help you run more comfortably while reducing the risk of injury.

How Does a Biomechanical Analysis in Physiotherapy Work?

At AMS clinics, biomechanical analysis for runners follows a structured and personalized approach.

The process is based on a strict protocol.

Initial Interview and Runner’s History

The physiotherapist discusses the runner’s goals, injury history, training habits, and sensations experienced during running. This step helps identify areas to monitor and adapt the protocol to the individual’s specific needs.

Posture and Joint Mobility Assessment

The therapist evaluates the spine, hips, knees, and ankles to identify imbalances and movement restrictions. Shoe-wear patterns are also considered, as are signs on the feet, such as calluses or deformities. The therapist measures joint mobility and range of motion to detect tension that could lead to injury.

Functional Analysis and Muscle Testing

This step provides a detailed overview of muscular capacity and motor control, helping to identify factors that may hinder performance or increase the risk of injury.

It includes tests such as:

• strength,
• endurance,
• coordination of stabilizing muscles, including the legs, core, and hips.

These analyses assess movement quality, stability, and the ability to sustain effort over time.

The goal is to detect any muscular imbalances or asymmetries that may alter running gait, reduce efficiency, and increase the risk of injury.

Gait Observation and Recording

Gait analysis is performed precisely through direct observation and appropriate technologies. The patient runs on a treadmill while the physiotherapist examines posture, foot placement, leg alignment, and trunk movement.

In some cases, high-speed cameras or pressure sensors are used to record the dynamics of each step and detect imbalances or compensations not visible to the naked eye. This data helps identify repetitive or inefficient movements that may cause muscular or joint strain.

Development of a Personalized Prevention Plan

Following the functional assessment and gait analysis, the physiotherapist develops a customized prevention plan, including:

• targeted strengthening exercises for weak or underused muscles to support joints and improve overall stability,
• specific stretching exercises to release tight areas and prevent muscular imbalances,
• postural advice and running technique guidance, including cadence, stride length, and trunk and hip positioning, to improve movement efficiency and reduce stress,
• recommendations on equipment, particularly the choice of shoes, insoles, or other accessories suited to the individual’s morphology and type of practice.

Follow-Up and Progressive Adjustments

Regular reassessments help track progress, observe improvements in strength, mobility, and gait mechanics, and adjust exercises or recommendations accordingly.

If needed, the physiotherapist may collaborate with other specialists, such as a sports physician, kinesiologist, or massage therapist, to ensure comprehensive and consistent care.

Common Causes of Injuries at the Start of the Season

Returning to running after the winter or a long break may seem simple, but the body can still be “asleep.” Joints may be stiff, muscles less resilient, and certain habits may have been lost during the time off. Injuries often occur more easily at the beginning of the season.

The main causes may include:

• reduced joint mobility: the knees, ankles, and hips may lack flexibility,
• muscle imbalances: weak or underused muscles can create compensations, placing extra stress on other areas and leading to pain,
• poor running technique or training overload: trying to run too fast or too long from the first session can fatigue the body and cause injuries, even for experienced runners.

Warning Signs to Watch For

It’s important not to underestimate:

• localized pain in the knees, hips, or ankles, often mild at first but potentially worsening over time,
• muscle or tendon stiffness, especially after running or upon waking,
• quick fatigue or gait asymmetry, such as a shorter step on one side or a pulling sensation.

Tips for a Safe Return

Getting back into running means, above all, respecting your body. Start gradually and increase distance and intensity progressively. Allow for proper recovery periods. Incorporate simple strengthening and stretching exercises to support your muscles and joints. Pay attention to your posture—proper alignment of the back and core can make a significant difference in preventing pain.

Conclusion

Returning to running at the start of the season carries a risk of injury if imbalances and technique are not properly assessed. Biomechanical analysis in physiotherapy helps identify these factors and establish a personalized plan to strengthen, correct, and improve your running gait for safety.

For an effective and pain-free return, book a physiotherapy consultation and benefit from follow-up care tailored to your profile.