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How Running Mechanics Can Help Prevent Injuries and Boost Performance
How Running Mechanics Can Help Prevent Injuries and Boost Performance

How Running Mechanics Can Help Prevent Injuries and Boost Performance

Are you a runner who has experienced pain, discomfort, or limitations in your performance? Running-related disorders are common among runners and can not only interfere with your training but can also significantly impact your overall quality of life. Fortunately, with the help of our integrated team at MMA Sports Rehab, you can identify risk factors, prevent injuries, and improve your running performance!

Running-related injuries are prevalent, affecting up to 80% of runners annually. Fortunately, our multidisciplinary team offers a running program to help prevent running injuries and improve efficiency. Our team will conduct an assessment that includes assessing the following:

  • Current training and future goals
  • Running shoes
  • Functional strength and flexibility (i.e., Functional Movement Screening)
  • A video-recorded analysis of the running technique.

Our MMA Sports Rehab team of skilled practitioners in various fields will collaborate to design a program tailored to the individual’s needs to maximize your results!

Maximize your running potential with the help of our integrated team of healthcare professionals. Contact MMA Sports Rehab today and schedule your running mechanics assessment. Take the first step towards injury prevention and improved performance!

How To Recognize Common Running-Related Risk Factors

Running is a popular form of exercise, but it can also lead to injuries if proper precautions are not taken. The good news is that most running-related injuries are preventable. Our integrated team will assess to ensure you have proper running mechanics, appropriate footwear, and an effective training progression to help prevent injuries. 

If you are experiencing running-related pain or discomfort, it is vital to seek an assessment by our specialists. We’ll determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment. Our full-body approach can help prevent injuries and promote proper form.

Overuse injuries, such as tendinitis and stress fractures, can result from repeating the same motion for an extended period. Training errors can also lead to injuries. Poor running mechanics, such as overstriding or excessive pronation, can stress the body and lead to injuries. Wearing inappropriate footwear, such as shoes that do not support the foot type or running style, can also increase the risk of injury.

Recognizing the early warning signs of running-related injuries and taking preventative measures can help reduce the risk of injury. These measures include proper warm-up and cool-down, gradual progression in training, proper running mechanics, and appropriate footwear. 

Seeking prompt attention and a comprehensive running mechanics screening can help avoid unnecessary downtime.

At MMA Sports Rehab, our therapists specialize in helping runners recover from injuries and prevent future ones. Our approach starts with a thorough evaluation that includes a history of your training schedule, medical history, and personal goals. 

We then conduct a biomechanical analysis (FMS) and gait assessment (i.e., running mechanics) to identify any weaknesses or restrictions in your mobility. This information allows us to create an individualized program that includes manual techniques, mobility work, and strengthening exercises. We’ll also work on neuromuscular control to help runners recover from pain or injuries.

Our MMA Sports Rehab Running Program is designed to help prevent running injuries and improve running efficiency. The program includes a 1- and 30-minute assessment with a physical therapist, assessing running shoes, functional strength, and flexibility, and video-recorded running technique assessment and analysis. 

This program offers a specific intervention plan, running program, exercise program tailored to individual needs, and 30-minute follow-up sessions to adjust running technique. 

Our programs also include specific instructions for at-home exercises and, when appropriate, a “return to run” progression to ensure a safe return to running. Our focus is not only on injury recovery but also on improved performance on race day. 

We tailor our therapy interventions to your individual needs and work with you to challenge your balance, coordination, and agility to reduce the risk of future injuries. Our goal is to provide you with the tools to successfully train your core, reduce your risk of future injuries, and enjoy the benefits of running!

Request An Appointment Today!

Proper running mechanics are essential to preventing running-related injuries and improving performance. Our full-body approach with the integrated team of specialists at MMA Sports Rehab helps runners enjoy the benefits of running. We’ll work to help you increase running efficiency, prevent injuries, and achieve your running goals.

Contact us today to schedule your running mechanics assessment and to work with our integrated team of healthcare professionals!

A Special Thanks from MMA Sports Rehab

“We now have 397 Google 5-star reviews and more than 700 5-star reviews. We want to show our gratitude to our well-wishers, friends, family, community, and our beloved patients for their continued trust with their health care/rehab. We love you, and we are here because of YOU! Thank You!!!” – MSR Family

Dr. Ujjwal’s Tips: ????‍♂️ Run Smarter, Not Harder: 5 Fun Facts About Running Mechanics

with Dr. Ujjwal | MMA & Sports Rehab

Running isn’t just about speed—it’s about how you move. Whether you’re jogging around the block or training for your next race, here’s how proper running mechanics can keep you injury-free and feeling fast:


1. Land Like a Ninja ????

A smooth midfoot landing helps your body absorb shock like a pro—no more pounding the pavement like a herd of elephants. Your knees and hips will thank you.


2. Stop Fighting Yourself ????

Poor form = extra strain. Tight calves? Shin splints? Your form might be the culprit. A few simple tweaks can help your muscles work with you, not against you.


3. Go the Extra Mile (Literally) ????

Good mechanics mean less wasted energy. Think of it as running in cruise control mode—you’ll move smoother, last longer, and maybe even leave your running buddy in the dust.


4. Keep the Muscles Playing Fair ⚖️

When your form’s off, some muscles overwork while others nap. Proper mechanics keep everyone doing their part so you don’t end up with aches and pains in weird places.


5. Recovery Made Easy ????

Clean form = fewer post-run regrets. Less soreness, quicker bounce-back, and more miles in your future. Who doesn’t want that?


Want your running form checked?

Stop by MMA & Sports Rehab—we’ll fine-tune your mechanics so you can run stronger, smarter, and pain-free.

???? Introducing the MSR Performance Tee ????

Made with premium 5-Star Fabric to heighten performance during your toughest workouts, this tee provides sun defense, rash guard, moisture-wicking technology, stain release, and a comfortable fit. It is the perfect year-around choice for sports and exercise. 

???? Features:

  • Premium fabric for all-day comfort
  • Sleek, modern design
  • Tailored fit for a sharp silhouette
  • Reinforced shoulder seams
  • Double needle cover stitch hem
  • Tag free neck

???? Special Launch Offer: Buy One, Get One Free! ????
That’s right – grab one MSR tee for $29.99 and get another one absolutely free. Perfect for stocking up or sharing the love with a friend!


???? Pre-Order  – Click here to pre-order

Hurry, BOGO lasts for the first 100 shirts. Get your hands on the MSR Performance Tee while the offer lasts!

-Joshua S.

Clinic News

Dr. Ujjwal met Dr. Reginald Kapteyn, DO
Dr. Kapteyn is an amazing and expert physician @isppcenter and expert with variety of medical treatments along with tendon health, spine health and ultrasound guided carpal tunnel release, uses prolotherapy, PRP, cortisone injection etc. 

Exciting things are on the way! Our new location is still under construction, but we can’t wait to share more updates with you soon. Thanks for staying tuned—we appreciate your support!

MSR is a sponsor for “The Pike Summer Movie Nights” : Movies will be shown at Fridays nights at Arlington Mill Community Center and Saturday nights at Penrose Square. 

Rediscover your strength and get back to your best self at MMA Sports Rehab! Schedule your next appointment today and experience the top-notch care that helped you before.

Salmon with Honey & Garlic Sauce

Treat yourself to the perfect balance of sweet and savory with this Salmon with Honey & Garlic Sauce—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside. It’s a quick, flavorful dish that’s sure to impress at any mealtime.

Ingredients:

  • 1 1/4 lb salmon fillets
  • 2 tsp olive oil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup water
  • 1/4 cup low sodium soy sauce
  • 3 tbsp honey
  • 2 tsp cornstarch
  • 1 tbsp chopped parsley
  • lemon wedges for garnish

Directions:

Heat the olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat. Season the salmon with salt and pepper to taste. Place the salmon skin side up in the pan. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side or until cooked through. Remove the salmon from the pan, place on a plate while covering with foil to keep warm. Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 30 seconds. Add the water, soy sauce and honey combination to the pan, and bring to a simmer. In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch with 1 tablespoon cold water. Slowly pour the cornstarch mixture into the pan and whisk to combine. Bring to a boil and cook for 1 minute or until sauce has just thickened. Return the salmon to the pan and spoon the sauce over the top. Sprinkle with parsley and serve with lemon wedges if desired.

Meet Our Team

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Dr. Ujjwal Shakya

Physical Therapist, DPT, DMT, SCS, FNCP

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Dr. Brianna Wynn

PT, DPT, Barbell Rehab Method Certified, USA Weightlifting Coach Level 1 & 2 Certified

How Running Mechanics Can Help Prevent Injuries and Boost Performance
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Dr. Barz Kim

PT, DPT, Cert. DN Level 1 & 2

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Ayesha Samudralanka

Patient Service Specialist

Serving the Northern Virginia community with premium Physical Therapy since 2014.

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Phone (703) 214-7445
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Fri & Sat: 7 am – 5 pm
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Address 932 S Walter Reed Dr
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