Running injury physiotherapy.
Running injuries are almost always training load problems. The body was asked to do more than it was currently capable of. Whether it is a sudden mileage spike or months of cumulative overload, the solution is rarely to simply rest and restart. Motion Theory builds a structured return-to-running program that addresses the underlying capacity deficit and gets you back to your training goals stronger.
Who It's For
Recreational and competitive runners experiencing knee pain, shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, plantar fasciitis, hip pain, or IT band syndrome. Also applicable to runners who have had surgery and need a structured return-to-running protocol.
What We Assess
We perform a full running load history, injury mechanism analysis, lower limb strength and flexibility assessment, and where indicated a treadmill gait analysis to identify biomechanical contributors. This gives us a complete picture of why the injury occurred.
Treatment Approach
Treatment targets the specific injury while simultaneously rebuilding the capacity that failed. A structured return-to-running program with graded walk-run intervals runs parallel to strength training addressing the specific load deficit. Gait retraining is incorporated where biomechanical drivers are identified.
Recovery Pathway
Injury Treatment & Load Rest
Treat the specific injury, maintain fitness with non-provocative cross-training, and establish the return-to-run timeline.
Strength & Graded Return
Progressive strength loading of the affected structures alongside a structured walk-run return protocol.
Full Training Volume
Return to goal training loads with load management strategy to prevent recurrence.
Clinic Location & Access
Located at 1367 West Broadway in Vancouver, Motion Theory is situated in the Fairview medical corridor, in close proximity to Vancouver General Hospital (VGH). We serve patients from Kitsilano, Mount Pleasant, and the broader Metro Vancouver area.
Common Questions
How soon can I start running again?
This depends on the injury. We establish a clear return-to-run timeline at your initial assessment based on tissue healing, strength deficits, and your specific presentation.
Should I change my running shoes?
Footwear can be a contributing factor for some injuries, particularly plantar fasciitis and patellofemoral pain, but it is rarely the sole cause. We identify whether footwear modification is indicated as part of your assessment.
I keep getting the same running injury. What am I missing?
Recurring running injuries almost always reflect an unresolved capacity deficit, typically weak glutes or hip stabilizers, combined with a return to volume that outpaces tissue adaptation. We identify and address the root cause.
Related Services
Registered Clinicians
All practitioners are registered with their respective provincial colleges in British Columbia.
Evidence-Based
Treatment protocols are grounded in current peer-reviewed literature and clinical guidelines.
Direct Billing
Available for ICBC claims and most major extended health benefit providers.