Melbourne's Best Rated Sports Physio for Runners
Running offers more than just a physical challenge; it’s a pursuit that demands resilience, dedication, and a profound understanding of the body’s intricate mechanics. However, the repetitive nature of running, combined with the impact on joints and muscles, often brings runners face to face with the risk of injuries. This is where the expertise of sports physiotherapists becomes not only valuable but essential.
Getting to know the best-rated sports physiotherapists is a vital step towards ensuring a fulfilling and injury-free running experience. This is a comprehensive guide on how Melbourne’s finest are elevating the running game through the art and science of sports physiotherapy.
Can physio help with running?
Engaging with a physiotherapist or a running injury specialist is highly beneficial, even if you’re not currently grappling with pain or discomfort. Their expertise extends beyond mere treatment; they play a pivotal role in enhancing your overall running experience. A skilled physiotherapist can assist in refining your running form, identifying and addressing potential weaknesses, and implementing preventive measures to ward off future injuries. Whether you’re a seasoned marathoner or a novice jogger, consulting with a physiotherapist can be a proactive step towards optimizing your running performance and ensuring a sustainable, injury-free journey.
Should you get physio before or after running?
The decision of when to seek physiotherapy—before or after running—depends on your specific circumstances. If you’re gearing up for a race and experiencing pre-race discomfort or “niggles,” consulting with a professional physiotherapist before the event can be highly beneficial. They can address any existing issues, offer preventive strategies, and provide guidance on optimal preparation. Whether it’s fine-tuning your running form, managing minor discomfort, or preventing potential injuries, a visit to a physiotherapist before your race can contribute significantly to your overall performance and well-being.
How many times a week should you go to physiotherapy?
The frequency of physiotherapy sessions per week varies based on individual needs and the specific condition being addressed. In the initial stages of recovery, it’s often recommended to attend physiotherapy 2-3 times per week. However, as the healing progresses, the frequency may be adjusted accordingly. The optimal schedule is determined through consultation with a physiotherapist, who assesses the condition, monitors progress, and tailors the treatment plan to individual requirements. Adjustments to the session frequency are made based on the patient’s response to treatment and the goals of rehabilitation.
BEST RATED SPORTS PHYSIO FOR RUNNERS IN MELBOURNE
RUN READY
One client shares a positive experience with Run Ready’s physio for runners, praising Coach Aiden for providing excellent support and advice for their 14-year-old son’s training. They appreciate the gym’s uncrowded environment, easy class booking system, and guided training due to limited class sizes. The client has personally trained at Run Ready for 10 weeks, expressing satisfaction with the journey. They highlight Coach Aiden’s positive impact on their recovery from injury, improved strength, and overall well-being. The personalized program tailored to their running goals and the supportive atmosphere at Run Ready makes it a highly recommended gym for achieving fitness and running objectives.
THE SPORTS CLINIC OF MELBOURNE
Many clients share a positive experience at the Sports Clinic of Melbourne. One received a bike fitting from Sarah, who was helpful, patient, and knowledgeable, addressing her knee issues effectively. She praises Sarah’s expertise, friendly demeanor, and plans to return while highly recommending her services. Additionally, it was the her first visit to the clinic for ankle pain. They commend the friendly staff and specifically mention their positive encounter with Ryan Edwards. Ryan conducted a thorough assessment and provided useful advice, exercises, and insights into the injury’s location and likely causes. She left feeling positive and recommended the clinic wholeheartedly for sports-related injuries, giving it a 10/10 rating.
Website: https://sportsclinicmelb.com.au/
LIFE PERFORMANCE MEDICINE
Outstanding facilities for rehabilitation and performance. Clients commend the friendly and attentive staff, emphasizing the effectiveness of the management plan tailored to their lifestyle. One expresses satisfaction with Life Performance Health, particularly noting a positive experience with back concerns. After only two sessions, he felt a significant improvement and highly recommended the clinic.
Website: https://lifeperformancehealth.com.au/
ATHELTIC SOUL REHAB
One client came with a fractured collarbone, struggling with rehabilitation. Annie motivated and convinced them of the benefits of regular strengthening exercises, leading to near-full mobility and strength in just a few months. The person credits Annie for preventing severe limitations that could have impacted their work. They highly recommend Annie as a friendly, motivating, and flexible physiotherapist. Another client praises Annie’s knowledge and clear communication, making injury rehab an easier process. The recommendation extends to anyone seeking to regain full health and gain sustainable knowledge and tools along the way.
Website: https://www.athleticsoulrehab.com.au/
MELBOURNE PHYSIO CLINIC
Another popular clinic on our list is Melbourne Phyios Clinic. A client has been seeing Cam for over a year due to pain in the left knee and right shoulder. With structured programming and continuous consultation, they have experienced significant improvement in both areas, allowing a full return to normal activities. The person highly recommends Cam, praising his understanding of clients, effective strategies for injury management, and the ability to cater to both athletes and the general population. Another client says Cam is commended as an excellent physiotherapist, having successfully addressed three different issues or injuries throughout the year. In each instance, his treatment and guidance in the rehabilitation process have proven very helpful. The individual specifically notes the positive impact on lower back pain, which has been nearly eliminated by following Cam’s prescribed program. Cam is described as professional, friendly, and a good communicator, earning a high recommendation from the individual.
Website: https://www.melbournephysioclinic.com.au/
ELITE SPORTS PHYSIOTHERAPY
This clinic also earned exceptional reviews for Sriyan’s exceptional physiotherapy service, emphasizing his expertise and personalized approach to managing their return to sport from injury. They express unwavering confidence in Sriyan, having visited him exclusively for more than 5 years, citing his vast knowledge, experience, clear articulation of issues, and effective solutions. The individual views Sriyan as an understanding and skilled therapist who is dedicated to assisting clients passionately. One client also extends gratitude for Sriyan’s professional treatment and guidance during their recovery, acknowledging his pivotal role in their healing process.
Website: http://elitesportsphysio.com.au/
EVOLUTIO SPORTS PHYSIO MELBOURNE
Reviews also stood out for this clinic. One of their clients praises Maxine for her exceptional care over the last 6 months following a workplace injury. They highlight the well-thought-out treatments, evolving exercises, and personalized gym programs that helped tremendously throughout different stages, including surgery preparation and recovery. Maxine’s support in dealing with insurance matters is acknowledged, and the seamless handover to Olivia maintained the same level of treatment and care. The individual commends Evolutio for its welcoming and supportive environment, recommending the clinic highly.
Another client recommendation, Evolutio Physio is highly praised by a CrossFit coach for effectively addressing a shoulder injury. Phill’s knowledge, professionalism, and adaptive training recommendations receive acclaim, leading to positive recommendations to others.
Website: https://www.evolutio.com.au/
FLEX SPORTS PHYSIO
Here’s another one. One of their clients expresses high praise for Irwin Kim, describing him as the best physio they’ve had in a while. They highlight his attentive care, informative approach in explaining the prognosis, and prompt follow-up with a treatment plan after the appointment, expressing gratitude for his service.
The reviews speak highly of the entire team at Flex, particularly the myotherapy and remedial massage therapists. They appreciate the team’s attentive approach, understanding of injuries or health issues, and the empathetic care provided. One client who is a desk-based worker with neck, back, and shoulder pain, notes the thorough remedial massage treatments at Flex, emphasizing the positive impact on movement and overall pain relief. They recommend Flex enthusiastically, noting that friends, family, and colleagues have also had equally amazing experiences with the team’s services.
Website: https://flexphysio.com.au/
MELBOURNE CBD PHYSIOTHERAPY AND SPORTS MEDICINE CLINIC
Earning good reviews for this clinic is physiotherapist Nick Cross for their post-Achilles tendon surgery rehabilitation. Clients describe Nick as super attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. The personalized rehabilitation program in the high-performance gym at the venue is appreciated, with no waiting for machines like a regular gym. Clients love their program, the gym, and the people, emphasizing the immediate assistance from physiotherapists when needed. They express enthusiasm for the rehab journey, highlighting Nick’s regular check-ins and recommending both Melbourne CBD Physiotherapy and Nick Cross.
Another client sought help for hip arthritic pain at Melb CBD Physio. Impressed by the world-class facility, especially the Alter G, they were fortunate to have Nick as their physiotherapist. Describing Nick and the team as super knowledgeable and friendly, they express the value of travelling two hours to see Nick, emphasizing its worth in their overall positive experience.
Website: https://melbournecbdphysio.com.au/
PURE PHYSIO (AT QUEEN ST)
A client recounts a positive experience at Pure Physio for their daughter’s shoulder injury right before a competition. They expressed gratitude for securing an appointment with Andrew, who provided fantastic and hands-on treatment. After a 60-minute session, the daughter’s shoulder had significantly improved, nearing normal movement. The reviewer highly recommends Pure Physio, commending the reception staff and thanking Andrew for his skilled and professional treatment.
Another client praises Kate and the team at Pure Physio for their exceptional care following a knee injury. Describing Kate as an expert and the most knowledgeable physiotherapist they’ve met, the reviewer highlights Kate’s support, patience, and encouragement throughout the rehabilitation process. They credit Kate for motivating them to stay on track with rehab, leading to a full recovery and a return to team sports without knee pain. The client expresses utmost gratitude and a desire to give a 10-star review if possible, emphasizing their strong recommendation for Kate and her team.
Website: https://www.purephysio.com.au/
Sports Physiotherapists play a pivotal role in facilitating recovery and enhancing physical performance.
Whether addressing specific injuries, such as shoulder and knee issues or aiding in post-surgery rehabilitation, the common thread across these experiences based on the different reviews of clients is the profound impact of skilled and attentive sports physiotherapists. Practitioners are highlighted for their hands-on, knowledgeable, and personalized approaches. Their expertise not only addresses immediate concerns but also guides individuals through comprehensive rehabilitation programs, fostering lasting recoveries. The positive outcomes extend beyond mere physical healing, with practitioners often serving as advocates and sources of motivation, crucial in instilling confidence and commitment throughout the rehabilitation journey. Also, the emphasis on specialized facilities, such as high-performance gyms and innovative equipment highlights the importance of a well-equipped environment in delivering effective sports physiotherapy. The indispensable role of sports physiotherapists in empowering individuals to overcome injuries, regain optimal functioning, and pursue their fitness and sports goals with confidence.
For runners, one of the most recommended types of massage is the deep tissue massage. This technique is widely used to address the specific needs of runners, targeting both the superficial and deep layers of muscles. During a deep tissue massage, a skilled therapist employs deliberate and focused strokes to reach the deeper layers of muscle tissue, effectively addressing tight spots and promoting overall muscle relaxation. This type of massage is particularly beneficial for runners seeking relief from muscle tightness, tension, and the physical stress associated with their sport.
The frequency of sports massages for runners depends on individual training intensity and specific needs. For those undergoing rigorous training in preparation for an event, a sports massage on a weekly or monthly basis may be beneficial to address the build-up of tightness and prevent potential injuries. Alternatively, runners who experience muscle tension from prolonged periods of sitting, such as at a computer, may opt for occasional treatments to alleviate tension in specific areas like the shoulders. Ultimately, the frequency of sports massages is highly personalized and can vary based on training routines, individual preferences, and the presence of muscle tightness or discomfort.
Yes, cupping therapy can be beneficial for runners, particularly when used in conjunction with physical therapy treatment. Cupping is considered an effective alternative treatment that can aid in improved muscle recovery. It can be particularly helpful for addressing nagging soreness or muscle tightness. If runners experience persistent discomfort, consulting with a physical therapist or athletic trainer to explore the potential benefits of cupping as a complementary modality to enhance pain relief and muscle recovery is recommended.
To maximize the benefits of a sports massage, it is recommended to rest for 24-48 hours afterward to allow sufficient time for muscle recovery. During this period, it is advisable to avoid intense workouts, but engaging in light exercises like walking, swimming, and gentle yoga can be suitable. This rest period contributes to the effectiveness of the massage in promoting muscle recovery and preventing potential strain or injury.
After a sports massage, it is important to prioritize hydration, maintain a healthy diet, and get ample rest. However, there are several things to avoid, including smoking, consuming caffeine, engaging in intense workouts, and taking hot baths or showers. These activities can potentially counteract the benefits of the massage and may hinder muscle recovery. If there are uncertainties or questions about post-massage care, consulting with the massage therapist is recommended for personalized guidance.
