Are Running Assessments Worth It? Here’s Why They Absolutely Are
Posted by: Reform Physical Therapy in Sport Tips on May 4, 2023
If you’re wondering whether a running assessment in Southern Maine is worth your time or money, the short answer is: yes. Whether you’re training for your next race or just enjoy the occasional jog, a running assessment can help you run more efficiently, prevent injuries, and get the most out of every mile. At Reform Physical Therapy, we believe assessments aren’t just for marathoners—they’re for every runner who wants to move smarter and feel better.
Why Get a Running Assessment if You’re Not in Pain?
It’s a common question:
“I’m not hurt, so why would I need a running assessment?”
We love when people say they’re running pain-free. That’s the goal! But just because you’re not in pain now doesn’t mean your running form isn’t putting stress on your joints or muscles. Often, injuries build gradually due to poor mechanics—and by the time pain sets in, you’re already in recovery mode.
The Injury Prevention Equation
Proper Body Mechanics + Proper Footwear = Fewer Injuries
(Unless a rogue squirrel takes you out… then all bets are off.)
Jokes aside, running assessments identify movement patterns that may lead to injuries. Our physical therapists observe and record your running form—typically on a treadmill—from multiple angles to detect asymmetries, inefficient movement patterns, and misalignments that may be causing pain or could lead to future issues.
What Does a Running Assessment Include?
Your running assessment at Reform Physical Therapy includes a detailed evaluation of how your body moves while running. Our physical therapists assess your mechanics from head to toe, using slow-motion video analysis to highlight subtle issues that are easy to miss.
We Analyze Key Factors Like:
- Swing time
- Step time
- Stride length
- Weight distribution
- Force application
- Pronation (how your foot rolls on impact)
This data helps us pinpoint where your running form breaks down—and more importantly, how to correct it.
The Benefit? Customized Solutions That Help You Run Better
Once we identify where your mechanics are off, we create a personalized physical therapy plan to fix the issue. That could include strength training, mobility work, gait retraining, footwear recommendations, or manual therapy. Our goal is always to help you run more comfortably, efficiently, and confidently.
How Does This Save You Money?
Here’s the reality: Running injuries are expensive. According to the National Library of Medicine, youth sports injuries cost millions in medical expenses over five years—and adults often face even longer recovery times and higher costs.
Some of the most common running-related injuries we see in our clinics include:
- Muscle strains
- Shin splints
- Plantar fasciitis
- IT band syndrome
- Achilles tendonitis
While we can’t prevent every injury, a running assessment gives you the best chance of catching problems early—before they turn into costly setbacks.
Running Assessments Are a Smart Investment
Would you rather invest in a running assessment every couple of years, or spend thousands on medical care after an injury? Most runners know which option makes more sense.
At Reform Physical Therapy, we offer running assessments at all of our clinics across Southern Maine, and we can usually get you scheduled within a day or two. Whether you’re a competitive runner or just starting out, we’re here to help you run safer and stronger—for the long run.
Ready to book your running assessment?
Contact your nearest Reform Physical Therapy location today to get started. Let’s get you back on track—literally.