Ankle Pain in Runners Can Be Fixed With the Right Physical Therapy
Can Running Cause Ankle Pain?
Yes—ankle pain in runners is often caused by repetitive strain, muscle imbalances, or improper biomechanics. If left untreated, it can lead to longer recovery times or even chronic instability.
Why Runners Get Ankle Pain
Your ankles absorb a lot of force with every stride. Over time, small issues in alignment, strength, or mobility can cause pain or even more serious conditions like:
Tendonitis (especially the Achilles tendon)
Peroneal strain from weak stabilizers
Impingement from poor ankle mobility
Plantar fasciitis, which often stems from limited ankle range of motion
Many runners ignore ankle soreness, hoping it’ll go away on its own. But recurring pain is your body’s way of signaling something deeper—often weakness, poor running mechanics, or tight structures that need attention.
What Ankle Pain Feels Like in Runners
If you’re a runner dealing with ankle pain, it may show up as:
A dull ache after longer runs
Sharp pain with push-off or uneven surfaces
Morning stiffness or swelling
Difficulty walking or running without limping
It’s common to feel like the ankle “just needs to be stretched,” but tightness is often a symptom of instability or improper loading. That’s where targeted physical therapy can make a major difference.
How Physical Therapy Helps Runners with Ankle Pain
Victory Performance and Physical Therapy in Culver City specializes in treating runners with joint pain, chronic overuse injuries, and performance setbacks. Here’s how they help runners recover stronger:
1. Movement Assessment
Physical therapists analyze your running mechanics, ankle range of motion, foot alignment, and muscle activation patterns. This helps pinpoint the true cause of your pain—not just where it hurts.
2. Targeted Strength & Stability
Many ankle issues come from weak calves, unstable hips, or poor neuromuscular control. Your plan will likely include:
Calf strengthening and eccentric loading
Glute activation to reduce lower leg overload
Foot intrinsics and balance drills
3. Manual Therapy & Soft Tissue Work
Techniques to release stiff joints, reduce muscle guarding, and restore ankle mobility—especially after sprains or overuse. Therapists may also use taping techniques to offload irritated tendons.
4. Shockwave Therapy (When Appropriate)
For chronic conditions like Achilles tendonitis or plantar fasciitis, Victory offers advanced shockwave therapy to stimulate healing and break up scar tissue. Learn how shockwave therapy helps with plantar fasciitis.
Real Story From a Runner in Culver City
When Julia B. came to Victory PT, she was dealing with chronic Achilles pain and calf weakness that made running—and even walking—uncomfortable. With a personalized recovery plan, mobility work, and a clear home routine, she saw major improvements:
“My ankle is less stiff, my calf is starting to gain some real muscle, and my symptoms are less severe and less frequent,” she wrote. “I’m confident the Victory team will get me back to 100%.”
When to See a Physical Therapist for Ankle Pain
If ankle pain lingers for more than a few runs—or keeps returning—it’s time to get evaluated. At Victory Performance, you’ll receive one-on-one attention, not just a generic protocol. Their team understands the demands of running and designs plans that keep you moving while you recover.
Don’t Wait to Address Ankle Pain
Left untreated, ankle injuries can lead to compensations elsewhere—like knee, hip, or foot pain. Early physical therapy can prevent that domino effect.
If you’re in Culver City and want to run without ankle pain, schedule an appointment with the team at Victory Performance and Physical Therapy. They’ll help you recover with a plan that fits your running goals.
Call 424-543-4336 to book your appointment today.
