Course Description:

Running is a popular mode of exercise with a wealth of documented health benefits. Running, however, is associated with a high incidence and prevalence of injury with current evidence showing that upwards of 80% of runners will sustain a running-related injury (RRI) p/year. Due to the popularity of running, and the high risk of injury, it is crucial that physical therapists enhance their clinical reasoning by refining their understanding of the performance demands of running, appreciating the appropriate risk factors and working to enhance therapeutic alliance to progressively rehabilitate runners and return them to consistent and healthy training. This course will answer every runner’s most pressing question: “When can I run?” Additionally, this course will provide advanced clinical reasoning strategies for clinicians through a comprehensive approach focused on synthesizing current research and “best practices” related to the following: communication strategies, motivational interviewing, runner-specific assessment, strength and dose response training and drills, footwear considerations, injury patterns, and design of run performance programs. As running is a predictable activity, with known performance demands, participants will develop proficiency in their ability to guide and assist runners back to healthy and consistent training with an overall reduction in their risk of injury.