Spring is here, and for runners across Wigan and the surrounding areas, that means one thing: race season. Whether you’re gearing up for your first 5K or targeting a personal best at a half marathon, your body needs to be ready. At NV Physiotherapy in Chorley, we work with runners of all abilities to help them train smarter, recover faster, and cross the finish line feeling strong.
Why spring is a high-risk time for runners
After months of reduced training through the winter, many runners make the mistake of ramping up their mileage too quickly as the weather improves. This sudden increase in load is one of the leading causes of running injuries. The body, particularly tendons, joints, and muscles, needs time to adapt to the demands of more frequent and longer runs.
At NV Physio, we regularly see runners from Wigan, Chorley, and across Central Lancashire coming to us in April and May with injuries that could have been avoided with a little preparation. The good news is that with the right support, you can treat and prevent most running injuries.
The most common running injuries we treat
Runner’s knee (patellofemoral pain syndrome)
A dull ache around the kneecap, often worse when going downstairs or sitting for long periods. Runner’s knee is extremely common and often caused by weakness in the hips and glutes rather than the knee itself. Our physiotherapists will assess your movement patterns and design a targeted rehabilitation programme to get you back on the road.
IT band syndrome
A sharp, stabbing pain on the outer side of the knee typically appears after running a certain distance. IT band syndrome is frequently linked to overtraining, poor hip stability, or running on cambered surfaces. Physiotherapy, combined with a structured loading programme, is highly effective for this condition.
Achilles tendonitis
Stiffness and pain in the back of the ankle, especially in the morning or after rest. The Achilles tendon is placed under enormous stress during running, and if it’s not managed carefully, a mild tendinopathy can quickly become a more serious problem. Early intervention is key.
Shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome)
A broad aching pain along the inner edge of the shinbone, common in newer runners or those returning after a break. Shin splints are often a sign of overload and respond well to a combination of load management, strengthening exercises, and advice on footwear and running surface.
Not sure whether your pain is a niggle or something that needs attention? A good rule of thumb: if your discomfort is above a 3 out of 10 during a run, or if it’s still there the following morning, it’s worth getting it assessed.
How physiotherapy helps you run better, not just recover faster
Physiotherapy isn’t just about fixing injuries; it’s about building a more resilient runner. At NV Physiotherapy, we take a whole-body approach. That means looking at your running gait, assessing muscle strength and flexibility, and identifying any imbalances that might be putting you at risk.
For runners preparing for a spring event, we can put together a prehabilitation plan: a targeted programme of exercises designed to address your individual weaknesses before they become injuries. Many of our patients find that even a handful of sessions significantly improves how they feel during long runs.
Serving runners across Wigan and Central Lancashire
Our clinic is based in Chorley, just a short drive from Wigan, making us easily accessible for runners across the area. We offer flexible appointment times, including early mornings and evenings, so your physio appointments can fit around your training schedule.
Whether you’re a member of a local running club, training solo, or taking on your very first event, we’d love to support your journey. Get in touch with the NV Physio team today to book your initial assessment.
Ready to run your best race this spring?
Book an appointment at our Chorley clinic, and let us help you prepare, perform, and recover so nothing stands between you and the finish line.