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The Runner Doc

A Doctor of Physical Therapy keeping runners of all shapes and sizes injury free. Running Tips, home workouts, & rehab. Strength and Injury Prevention for Runners

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How to Protect Your Knees While Running

Hey there Reader As runners, we all want to enjoy the sport we love for as long as possible, but knee pain can often become a nagging issue that limits how far or how fast we can go. Your knees play a crucial role in every stride, absorbing impact and providing stability. But how do you protect them from the wear and tear of running? Today, we’re breaking down some essential tips to keep your knees healthy, strong, and pain-free, whether you’re just starting out or have been running for...

Hey there Reader I hope your running journey is going strong! Today, I'm excited to share some tips on adjusting your running form to prevent injuries and make your runs smoother. Whether you’re new to running or a seasoned athlete, small tweaks to your form can go a long way in keeping you healthy and injury-free. Here’s how to get started: 🦵 Why Running Form Matters Proper running form isn’t just about looking good—it’s key to reducing strain on your muscles and joints, conserving energy,...

Hey there Reader I know how frustrating it can be when knee pain slows you down or keeps you from doing what you love. Knee pain is one of the most common issues runners face, but it doesn’t have to stop you in your tracks. Whether you’re dealing with runner’s knee, IT band syndrome, or general knee discomfort, there are steps you can take to manage and even prevent knee pain. Here’s what you can do to manage knee pain both during and after your runs: 1. Check Your Running Form Your running...

Hey there Reader As a runner, you may feel invincible, but the reality is, 80% of runners will face an injury at some point. That’s where physical therapy (PT) comes in—not just to treat injuries but to prevent them from happening in the first place! Why Should Runners See a Physical Therapist? Prevent Injuries Before They Happen You don’t have to wait for an injury to occur to benefit from PT. By addressing movement imbalances and mechanical issues early, we can prevent common injuries like...

Hey there Reader As a runner, there’s nothing worse than being sidelined by an injury. Whether you’re just starting out or training for a marathon, injury prevention is essential to keep you running strong and pain-free. That’s where “prehab” comes in—a proactive approach to strengthening and conditioning your body to prevent injuries before they happen. Think of it as an insurance policy for your running routine! In this guide, we’re going to break down the key components of a successful...

Hey there Reader Did you know that 80% of recreational runners will experience at least one injury during their running career? That’s 8 out of 10 runners! But why does this happen, and more importantly, how can you avoid being part of that statistic? I’m Dr. Abby Siler, a physical therapist, runner, and pelvic floor specialist, and I’m here to help you run injury-free with minimal effort. In this week’s newsletter, we’re diving into the biggest cause of running injuries and how you can...

Hey there Reader I hope this email finds you well and ready to take on new challenges in your running journey! Today, we’re diving into the true meaning of ‘Base Building’—a term often misunderstood and oversimplified in the running world. Let’s redefine it together. Redefining Base Building: A Continuous Journey Base Building is more than just a phase or a block of training; it’s the cumulative effort you put into your running over months and years. It’s a continuous journey that shapes your...

Hey there Reader Welcome back to our series on returning to running postpartum. Last time, we discussed the importance of taking it slow and allowing your body to heal. Today, we're focusing on exercises, nutrition, and mental well-being to ensure a balanced and successful return to your favorite sport. Effective Exercises for Postpartum Recovery: Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Start with Kegel exercises to regain pelvic floor strength. Unsure how to perform a Kegel? Check out the linked video...

Hey there Reader Welcome to the first part of our series designed to support you as you return to running after pregnancy. I'm Dr. Abby Siler—a physical therapist, runner, and fellow mom. I specialize in helping runners like you overcome the physical challenges that come with motherhood so you can return to what you love—running! Understanding the Importance of Postpartum Recovery Pregnancy and childbirth bring about significant changes in your body. Your muscles, especially those in the...

Hey there Reader Welcome back, runners! In the first part of our series, we discussed the importance of pelvic floor health and its impact on your running performance and overall well-being. Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty: exercises and practical tips to strengthen and maintain a healthy pelvic floor. Key Exercises for Pelvic Floor Health Kegel Exercises How to Do It: Sit or lie down in a comfortable position. Imagine you are stopping the flow of urine and gently squeeze and lift your...