Running Injury Physical Therapy in Durham, NC

You run because it clears your head, keeps you strong, and gives you something that's yours. When pain gets in the way, it's not just a sore knee or a tight hip. It's losing a part of your week that matters.

Dr. Daniel Howard, PT, DPT, is a Duke-trained Doctor of Physical Therapy who works with runners of every level, from first 5Ks to Boston qualifiers. He'll spend a full hour finding what's driving your pain and build a plan that keeps you running while you get stronger.

Your first evaluation is free. Book your free evaluation

Running injuries we help with

  • Knee pain, including runner's knee and IT band pain
  • Hip and glute pain, including outer hip pain and hamstring tendon pain
  • Low back pain during or after runs
  • Shin splints and lower leg pain
  • Achilles and calf pain
  • Plantar fascia and foot pain
  • Injuries that keep coming back every training block

Why running injuries happen

Most running injuries aren't bad luck or bad knees. They usually happen when training load (how far, how fast, how often) gets ahead of what your tissues are ready for. A new race goal, a jump in mileage, new shoes, a hilly route, or a stressful season with less sleep can all tip the balance.

That's good news. You are not a car, and your body isn't wearing out. It adapts to the load you give it. With the right plan, you can build capacity back up, often without stopping completely.

How we help runners

Every plan is built around you and typically blends:

  • A thorough assessment of strength, mobility and how you move, plus a look at your running form when it helps
  • A training review: your mileage, pace, recent changes and goals
  • Clear education, so you understand what your pain means and what it doesn't
  • A plan to keep running at a level your body tolerates now, when that's possible
  • Progressive strength training for the hips, legs and feet, so you can handle more miles
  • A return-to-run progression you can follow on your own

Why runners choose Equipt For Life

  • Full 60-minute, one-on-one visits with a Doctor of Physical Therapy, every time
  • Strength training is built in, not an afterthought, in a private clinic with its own gym, sauna, and cold plunge
  • Transparent self-pay pricing; HSA and FSA cards accepted
  • Early-morning and after-work appointments, Monday through Friday

"He was so patient and encouraging and was able to diagnose the issue immediately. Happy to report that I am back to running with no pain!" - Caitlyn D.

"With Daniel's guidance and development of a strength training plan I PR'd in the marathon last year." - Spencer D.

When to get checked right away

See a doctor promptly if you have pain in a bone that's worse with every step and tender to touch in one spot, swelling that doesn't settle, pain at night that doesn't ease with rest, or you can't put weight on your leg. These can be signs of a stress fracture or another problem that needs imaging.

Related care at Equipt For Life

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to stop running? Often not completely. Many runners can keep running at a lower load while we build strength. We'll decide together based on how your body responds.

Do I need new shoes? Maybe, maybe not. Shoes matter less than most people think. We'll look at your training and strength first, and talk shoes if they're part of the picture.

Can you help me get faster, not just pain-free? Yes. The same strength work that prevents injury also helps performance. Many of our runners come in hurt and leave with a stronger plan than they had before.

Do you take insurance? Equipt For Life is a private-pay practice. You can pay with credit/debit, HSA, or FSA. See our policies for details.

Ready to get back to your miles?

Your body is not a problem; it's a puzzle. Let's figure out what yours needs so running feels good again.

Book your free evaluation or call (617) 943-7778.