Frequently Asked Questions
Common Running Injuries & Pain
What are the most common running injuries you treat at HomeRun Running Physio Melbourne?
As expert running physios in Melbourne, we frequently treat a range of common running injuries. These include, but are not limited to, runner's knee (patellofemoral pain), plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, shin splints (medial tibial stress syndrome), ITB syndrome, hamstring strains, and hip pain. We also address less common, but equally debilitating, issues. For comprehensive running physiotherapy in Melbourne, our specialised approach ensures targeted treatment for all types of running-related conditions.
I have knee pain when running. Can HomeRun Running Physio help with runner's knee?
Absolutely! Runner's knee is one of the most common complaints we see. Our specialised running physios in Melbourne excel at diagnosing the root cause of your knee pain, whether it's related to biomechanics, training load, or muscle imbalances. We'll develop a tailored plan to get you back on track pain-free. If you need additional sports physiotherapy support, our sister clinic Evolutio offers complementary services for complex cases.
What should I do if I experience shin splints after my runs?
Shin splints can be incredibly frustrating for runners. At HomeRun Running Physio, we'll assess your running form, footwear, and training history to understand why you're developing shin splints. We'll then provide targeted exercises, load management strategies, and advice to resolve the pain and prevent its return, helping you run comfortably in Melbourne and beyond. Book your assessment to start your recovery journey.
How can physiotherapy help with plantar fasciitis for runners?
Plantar fasciitis can severely impact your running. Our approach involves a thorough assessment of your foot mechanics, calf strength, and running gait. We use a combination of manual therapy, specific exercises, and education to alleviate your heel pain and build resilience in your feet, getting you back to enjoyable running in Melbourne.
Do you treat stress fractures in runners?
Yes, we have extensive experience managing stress fractures in runners. We'll help you understand the factors that contributed to your stress fracture, guide you through the healing process, and develop a comprehensive return-to-running program that addresses bone health, nutrition, training load, and biomechanics to prevent recurrence. For nutritional support during recovery, we can refer you to sports dietitians at Ciclo Melbourne who specialise in endurance athlete nutrition.
I have hip pain that's affecting my running. How can you help?
Hip pain in runners can stem from various causes including hip flexor tightness, glute weakness, or biomechanical issues. We'll conduct a thorough assessment of your hip mechanics, running gait, and strength patterns to identify the root cause and develop a targeted treatment plan to get you running pain-free. Our approach integrates with the strength and conditioning principles used at Evolutio's sports physio clinic.
What about lower back pain from running?
Lower back pain in runners often relates to core stability, hip mobility, or running posture issues. Our running physios will assess your entire kinetic chain to identify contributing factors and provide specific exercises and techniques to alleviate pain and prevent its return.
Running Performance & Prevention
Do I need to be injured to see a running physio?
Not at all! While we're experts in injury recovery, many runners visit HomeRun Running Physio for injury prevention and performance enhancement. We offer running assessments and strength and conditioning programs designed to optimise your running efficiency, reduce injury risk, and help you achieve new personal bests. Meet our team of specialist running physiotherapists who understand both treatment and performance enhancement.
What is a running assessment, and why is it beneficial?
A comprehensive running assessment at HomeRun Running Physio Melbourne involves analysing your running form through video gait analysis, assessing your strength, flexibility, and movement patterns. This helps us identify inefficiencies or imbalances that could lead to injury or limit performance, providing a roadmap for improvement. It's a fantastic proactive step for any runner in Melbourne.
Can you help me improve my running technique?
Yes! Our expert running physios are skilled in running gait analysis. We'll work with you to identify areas for improvement in your technique, helping you run more efficiently and reduce the load on vulnerable areas, ultimately making you a stronger, more resilient runner.
How can strength and conditioning benefit my running?
Strength and conditioning are vital for runners! Our personalised programs target key muscle groups to improve power, endurance, and stability, directly translating to better running performance and reduced injury risk. We'll show you exactly what to do to become a more robust runner. For advanced strength training, we can also refer you to Evolutio's specialised programs.
How often should runners have their biomechanics assessed?
We recommend runners have their biomechanics assessed annually, or whenever making significant changes to training, experiencing new pain, or preparing for major events like marathons. Regular assessments help catch potential issues early and optimise performance.
Can you help with running economy and efficiency?
Absolutely! Improving running economy means using less energy at the same pace. Through biomechanical analysis, strength training, and technique refinement, we help runners become more efficient, leading to better performance and reduced fatigue.
About HomeRun : Running Physio Melbourne
What makes HomeRun Running Physio different from other physiotherapy clinics in Melbourne?
We're not just general physiotherapists; we are specialised running physios in Melbourne. We understand the unique demands and biomechanics of running inside out. Our focus is entirely on helping runners – whether you're recovering from injury, aiming for a marathon, or just starting out. We're the architects of your ultimate running machine. We share the same building and philosophy as Evolutio Sports Physio, allowing for seamless collaboration when needed.
Where is HomeRun Running Physio located in Melbourne?
You can find us conveniently located at 11/3 Bromham Place, Richmond, in the heart of inner-city Melbourne. We serve runners from across Melbourne looking for expert running physiotherapy. We share this modern warehouse space with our sister clinics, creating a comprehensive sports medicine hub.
How do I book an appointment with a running physio at HomeRun?
Booking an appointment with HomeRun Running Physio Melbourne is easy! You can book online through our website, or simply give us a call at 91003798. We look forward to helping you achieve your running goals! For immediate bookings, you can also try our new booking system.
What qualifications do your running physios have?
Our physiotherapists are registered with AHPRA and have additional specialised training in running biomechanics, sports physiotherapy, and exercise prescription. Many of our team are runners themselves, bringing both professional expertise and personal understanding to your treatment. Learn more about our team's qualifications and experience.
Do you work with runners of all levels?
Yes! We treat everyone from beginners taking their first steps into running to elite athletes competing at national and international levels. Our approach is tailored to your individual goals, experience level, and running aspirations. We also connect with the Melbourne running community to support runners at every stage.
Treatment Process & What to Expect
What happens during my first appointment?
Your initial consultation involves a comprehensive assessment including medical history, training background, movement screening, and specific tests related to your concerns. If appropriate, we may also conduct a running analysis. This typically takes 60 minutes and allows us to develop your personalised treatment plan.
How long does a typical treatment session last?
Standard Initial treatment sessions are 45 minutes, allowing time for hands-on treatment, exercise prescription, education, and progress monitoring. Initial assessments may take longer to ensure we gather all necessary information. Our session structure follows similar principles to Evolutio's comprehensive approach.
How many sessions will I need?
This varies greatly depending on your condition, goals, and individual response to treatment. Minor issues may resolve in 2-4 sessions, while complex injuries or performance goals may require 6-12 sessions or ongoing periodic check-ins. We'll discuss realistic timeframes during your assessment.
What should I bring to my appointment?
Please bring your running shoes, any orthotics you use, comfortable clothing you can move in, and details of your current training program. If you have previous scans or reports, these can also be helpful.
Can I continue running while receiving treatment?
This depends on your specific condition. In many cases, we can modify your training to allow continued running while addressing your issues. Complete rest is rarely necessary, and we'll work with you to maintain fitness and motivation throughout your recovery.
Do you provide take-home exercises?
Yes! Exercise prescription is a crucial part of our treatment approach. We'll provide you with specific exercises tailored to your needs, complete with clear instructions and progression guidelines to support your recovery and performance goals.
Costs & Insurance
How much do your services cost?
Our pricing varies depending on the service. Initial assessments and standard consultations have different rates. Please contact us directly for current pricing information, as costs may vary based on your specific needs and treatment plan. However our Initial Consultations are $175 for 45 minutes.
Do you accept health insurance?
Yes, we're recognised providers for most major health funds. We offer HICAPS for on-the-spot claiming, making it convenient to receive your rebates immediately. We recommend checking with your health fund about your specific physiotherapy benefits.
Do I need a referral from my GP?
No referral is necessary to see a physiotherapist in Australia. However, if you have a chronic condition or are seeking rebates through certain programs, a GP referral may be beneficial. We can advise you on the best approach for your situation.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept cash, EFTPOS, credit cards, and offer HICAPS for health fund claims. Payment is expected at the time of service unless alternative arrangements have been made.
Do you offer package deals or concession rates?
We occasionally offer package deals for multiple sessions or comprehensive programs. Student and healthcare worker discounts may be available - please enquire when booking. We believe in making quality running physiotherapy accessible.
Training & Return to Running
How do you develop a return-to-running program?
Our return-to-running protocols are evidence-based and individualised. We consider your injury type, healing stage, fitness level, and running goals. The program typically includes graduated loading, specific strengthening, running technique work, and careful monitoring of your response to increased activity.
I'm training for a marathon. Can you help with my preparation?
Absolutely! We can assess your current fitness, identify potential injury risks, optimise your biomechanics, and work with your training plan to help you reach the start line healthy and perform your best on race day. For comprehensive training support, we can also connect you with Ciclo's programming services for cross-training and cycling components.
What's the best way to prevent running injuries?
Injury prevention involves multiple factors: gradual training progression, adequate recovery, appropriate strength training, good running technique, suitable footwear, and listening to your body. We can help you develop a comprehensive prevention strategy tailored to your individual risk factors.
Can you help with tapering strategies before races?
Yes! Proper tapering is crucial for race performance. We can guide you through evidence-based tapering protocols while maintaining your fitness and addressing any niggling issues before your event.
I'm a beginner runner. What should I know about injury prevention?
As a beginner, focus on gradual progression, proper footwear, basic strength training, and learning to listen to your body. We offer beginner-specific assessments and education sessions to set you up for a lifetime of enjoyable, injury-free running.
How do you monitor progress during rehabilitation?
We use various measures including pain scales, functional tests, strength assessments, and running analysis to track your progress. Regular reassessments ensure we're on track and allow us to adjust your program as needed.
Running Equipment & Footwear
Can you provide running shoe advice?
Yes! While we don't sell shoes, we can assess your foot type, gait pattern, and specific needs to provide guidance on appropriate footwear characteristics. We can also evaluate your current shoes to determine if they're contributing to any issues. Check out our blog post on New Balance 530s for running for specific shoe insights.
Do you prescribe or fit orthotics?
We can assess whether orthotics might benefit you and provide guidance on appropriate options. While we don't manufacture orthotics on-site, we work with trusted local providers and can recommend the best solution for your needs.
What's your opinion on minimalist running shoes?
Minimalist shoes can be beneficial for some runners, but the transition must be gradual and appropriate for your foot type and running style. We can assess whether minimalist footwear is suitable for you and guide you through a safe transition if appropriate.
How often should I replace my running shoes?
Generally, running shoes should be replaced every 600-800 kilometres, but this varies based on your weight, running style, surfaces, and shoe construction. We can help you assess when your shoes need replacing and what to look for in new ones.
Can running on different surfaces affect my injury risk?
Absolutely! Different surfaces place varying demands on your body. We can provide guidance on surface selection, training variety, and how to safely incorporate different terrains into your running routine.
Running Equipment & Footwear
Can you provide running shoe advice?
Yes! While we don't sell shoes, we can assess your foot type, gait pattern, and specific needs to provide guidance on appropriate footwear characteristics. We can also evaluate your current shoes to determine if they're contributing to any issues. Check out our blog post on New Balance 530s for running for specific shoe insights.
Do you prescribe or fit orthotics?
We can assess whether orthotics might benefit you and provide guidance on appropriate options. While we don't manufacture orthotics on-site, we work with trusted local providers and can recommend the best solution for your needs.
What's your opinion on minimalist running shoes?
Minimalist shoes can be beneficial for some runners, but the transition must be gradual and appropriate for your foot type and running style. We can assess whether minimalist footwear is suitable for you and guide you through a safe transition if appropriate.
How often should I replace my running shoes?
Generally, running shoes should be replaced every 600-800 kilometres, but this varies based on your weight, running style, surfaces, and shoe construction. We can help you assess when your shoes need replacing and what to look for in new ones.
Can running on different surfaces affect my injury risk?
Absolutely! Different surfaces place varying demands on your body. We can provide guidance on surface selection, training variety, and how to safely incorporate different terrains into your running routine.
Age-Specific Running Concerns
Do you treat young runners and adolescents?
Yes, we have experience treating young runners and understand the unique considerations of growing bodies. We work closely with parents, coaches, and young athletes to ensure safe training progression and healthy development.
I'm over 50 and want to start running. What should I consider?
Starting running later in life can be incredibly rewarding! We recommend a thorough assessment to identify any limitations or risk factors, followed by a graduated training program that considers your health history, current fitness, and goals.
How does menopause affect female runners?
Hormonal changes during menopause can affect bone density, muscle mass, and recovery. We can provide guidance on adapting training, nutrition considerations, and strategies to maintain running performance and enjoyment through this transition.
What about running during pregnancy?
Running during pregnancy can be safe for many women, but modifications are often necessary. We can assess your individual situation and provide guidance on safe running practices, core strengthening, and preparing for return to running post-birth.
Are there special considerations for masters athletes?
Masters athletes often require longer recovery times, may have age-related changes in mobility and strength, and might be managing multiple health conditions. We tailor our approach to optimise performance while respecting these physiological changes, including surface selection, training variety, and how to safely incorporate different terrains into your running routine.
Advanced Running Topics
Can you help with ultra-marathon preparation?
Ultra-marathons place extreme demands on the body. We can help with biomechanical optimisation, strength training specific to ultra-running demands, injury prevention strategies, and race-day preparation to help you achieve your ultra-running goals.
What about trail running vs road running differences?
Trail and road running place different demands on your body. Trail running requires more proprioception, ankle stability, and varied muscle activation patterns. We can assess your readiness for trail running and provide specific preparation strategies.
Do you work with competitive athletes?
Yes! We work with runners competing at various levels, from local fun runs to international competitions. Our approach for competitive athletes focuses on performance optimisation while maintaining robust injury prevention strategies. We collaborate with Evolutio's high-performance team for elite athlete support.
Can you help with altitude training considerations?
Training and competing at altitude presents unique physiological challenges. While we can't simulate altitude, we can help prepare your body for the demands and provide guidance on acclimatisation strategies.
What about recovery and regeneration strategies?
Optimal recovery is crucial for performance and injury prevention. We can educate you on evidence-based recovery strategies including sleep optimisation, nutrition timing, active recovery techniques, and when to seek additional therapies.
Online Services & Remote Support
Do you offer telehealth consultations?
Yes, we provide telehealth consultations for certain conditions and follow-up appointments. These can be particularly useful for exercise program reviews, education sessions, and ongoing support when you can't visit the clinic.
Can you review my running technique via video?
We can provide basic feedback on running videos, though in-person analysis is more comprehensive. If you're unable to visit the clinic, video analysis can still provide valuable insights into your running form.
Do you provide online exercise programs?
We can design customised exercise programs that you can access online, complete with video demonstrations and progression guidelines. This is particularly useful for maintaining your program when travelling or between appointments.
What ongoing support do you provide after treatment?
We offer various ongoing support options including periodic check-ins, program updates, training advice, and prompt attention to any new concerns. Many runners benefit from quarterly or bi-annual assessment sessions.
Can you work with my coach or other healthcare providers?
Absolutely! We believe in collaborative care and are happy to communicate with your running coach, GP, sports doctor, or other healthcare providers to ensure coordinated and effective treatment. We regularly collaborate with Evolutio's team and Ciclo's specialists for comprehensive care.
Ready to start your journey to better running? Contact us today or call 91003798 to book your assessment with Melbourne's leading running physiotherapy specialists.