5 Pieces of Advice for New PT Grads Looking to Work with Injured Runners

Everyday, I receive an email or message from a recent physical therapy graduate, who is looking for guidance in terms of refining their approach to working with runners, or looking to establish themselves as a running rehab specialist. Although it takes time to master any craft, I thought it would be helpful to share a few pieces of advice/reminders to put you on the right path. By no means is this a comprehensive list, but rather, some simple suggestions that have helped me over the years. Lastly, it's critical to bear in mind that your ability as a runner has relatively little impact on your ability as a therapist, so never confuse the two.

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READ ONE JOURNAL ARTICLE PER WEEK

"Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not to his own facts." -Daniel Moynihan-
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Having spent considerable time in the research lab at the University of Delaware, in addition to working as a research assistant and PT at the Nicholas Institute of Sports Medicine & Athletic Trauma (NISMAT), I had no choice but to immerse myself in the literature. Dr. Malachy McHugh, who is the current Director of Research at NISMAT, used to always remind me that clinical decisions should be driven by evidence rather than belief. So, if you want to be taken seriously, it's important to speak in denominators.

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CONNECT WITH A RUNNING COACH

"A coach is someone who tells you what you don't want to hear, who has you see what you don't want to see, so you can be who you have always known you could be."
-Tom Landry-

There are some amazing coaches in the world of running. Chances are that there is even one in your town. Find out who they are and ask to train with their group if they are taking on new members. Otherwise, see if you can get them out for a coffee or a drink. Believe me, they could all use a good PT and will never turn down an opportunity to talk shop.

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HANG OUT AT THE LOCAL TRACK

 "You can observe a lot by just watching" 
-Yogi Berra-

One of the best ways to learn more about running is to simply spend time at the local track watching runners train and race. You will see runners of all shapes, sizes, ages, and abilities while getting immersed in the running culture. And please don't be shy! Introduce yourself and tell people what you do from a professional standpoint. Considering the high incidence of running related injuries (RRIs), chances are that you will make some friends ;-) 

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SPEND TIME WITH STRONG PEOPLE

"If there's one thing that runners should do beyond running, it's strength train." - Gregory Lehman

When looking at the available body of research, it's become readily apparent that strength training plays an invaluable role in safeguarding against injury while improving running economy. Although the vast majority of runners are concerned that they will only put on mass or risk injury, this is a myth. So find the strongest people and the most well respected strength coaches in your area and connect with them. Remember, "you don't earn strength, you learn strength."

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INFUSE PAIN SCIENCE & MI 

"Innovation is not about tricks, gimmicks, and products. It's about behavior change!"  -Al Smith-

The most brilliant clinicians I know possess an uncanny ability to weave pain science and motivational interviewing (MI) into their care. Irrespective of what approach or system you follow, it will be far more effective if you are able to help patients re-conceptualize their situation while facilitating positive behavioral change. That is where the true magic of our profession lies. So, if you are ever looking to take a con ed course, pick one related to pain science and/or MI.