Runner's Evaluation Identifies And Corrects Mechanical Deficits

CHICAGO, June 24, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Runners Beware.  A National Institute of Health study shows that up to 50 percent of runners sustain an injury each year -- and up to 70 percent of those will recur.  At risk are both casual runners and endurance athletes.  But, there's hope for Chicago area runners who want to prevent injuries or remain injury-free. 

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Accelerated Physical Therapy is offering an assessment tool to identify mechanical deficits in runners of all ages and skills.  The Runner's Evaluation includes a full gait analysis by a licensed physical therapist trained to identify a runner's flexibility, range of motion, muscular strength and running pattern. It also detects whether the patient has injury-prone areas and/or gait deficits that can be corrected through individualized training and exercise programs.

Using state-of-the-art video analysis software, called Dartfish Prosuite, specially-trained physical therapists videotape an individual running to identify  his/her physical condition and movement dysfunction during activity.  Dartfish has been proven beneficial with qualitative and quantitative movement analysis, gait analysis, muscle imbalance assessment, injury prevention, ergonomics, performance and fitness testing. In addition, each runner receives a copy of his/her video analysis, making it easier to visualize recommendations and follow the physical therapist's instructions.

Shilpi Havron, Accelerated PT and running specialist, describes the Runner's Evaluation as a "comprehensive tool for providing feedback on an individual's biomechanics and chances for injury."  The most common running injuries she treats are patellar tendonitis/runner's knee, plantar fasciitis and shin splints, all of which she feels can be avoided with proper mechanics and training. 

For most runners, Havron recommends these tips for peak performance and injury prevention:

• Lean forward at the ankle slightly when running
• Increase cadence to avoid over-striding (180 strikes/minute)
• Establish a good rolling/stretching program before and after running to improve tissue (muscles/IT Band) mobility
• Focus on dynamic stretching not static stretching

The standard Runner's Evaluation ($150) includes a basic musculoskeletal screen, a Dartfish video analysis with take-home DVD and a final report with individualized recommendations on improving running technique and instructions for a home exercise program.  The advanced Runner's Evaluation ($250) adds a more in-depth examination of the individual's gait efficiency and endurance.  For more information, call 877-97-REHAB or visit www.acceleratedrehab.com.

Accelerated also offers an advanced evaluation for endurance athletes who compete in triathlons, marathons, cycling and swimming events.  This includes biomechanical analysis of the gait, cycle and swim stroke and individualized training programs.

To download a free For Runners Only brochure with running injury prevention tips, visit www.acceleratedrehab.com.

About Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers
Chicago-based Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers is a premier provider of a wide array of comprehensive patient services and specialized rehabilitation programs. Since 1989, Accelerated has grown to over 230 outpatient rehabilitation centers in Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Wisconsin, Ohio and Arizona, becoming the top choice for many professional athletes, large employers and busy professionals. For more information about Accelerated, call 877-97-REHAB, or visit www.acceleratedrehab.com.

SOURCE Accelerated Rehabilitation Centers