Proper Running Form Myths That Keep You Injured

You work hard to stay active, but something keeps throwing you off. Nagging aches, sore knees, tight hips. It’s frustrating when you’re putting in the miles and still ending up on the treatment table. But the truth is that proper running form myths may be keeping you there.
Many runners think their issues come from pushing too hard or not stretching enough. But the real problem might be your form. And even more surprising? It could be the so-called “proper running form” advice you’ve been following.
Let’s clear up the confusion so you stop repeating mistakes that lead to injury. These common myths don’t just slow you down. They set you up for pain.
Here’s what most runners in Arizona don’t realize:
Good form isn’t about looking perfect
Some popular tips actually increase your risk of injury
Your body type and mechanics matter more than internet advice
You deserve to run without pain. And it starts with tossing out the myths

April 16, 2025 No Comments

How to Heal a Torn Meniscus Naturally

If you’re dealing with a torn meniscus, you’re probably frustrated, in pain, and wondering if surgery is your only option. The good news? It’s often not. Many times, it’s possible to learn how to heal a torn meniscus naturally.
You can support your body’s natural healing process with a few intentional choices and a little patience. It starts with understanding how your meniscus works and what it needs to recover.
This kind of tear doesn’t heal overnight, but if you give your knee the right environment to heal, you can often avoid the knife.
Whether you’re headed for the Coyote Ridge Trail or the Horsetooth Rock Trail Loop, our goal is to get you up and running again! So let’s look at practical, natural ways to ease the pain, reduce inflammation, and get you moving again, without rushing into surgery.

March 31, 2025 No Comments

How to Keep Knees Healthy: Running for a Lifetime

Imagine training for months to run the Horsetooth Half Marathon, only to be sidelined by knee pain weeks before race day. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many runners who neglect proper knee care. So, how to keep knees healthy?
Studies show that the knee joint is one of the most vulnerable areas for overuse injuries. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can:
Bulletproof your knees
Reduce injury risk
Enhance your performance

March 27, 2025 No Comments

What Does Dry Needling Do?

If you’ve ever dealt with muscle pain that won’t go away, dry needling might be the solution you haven’t considered. This technique uses thin needles to target trigger points—tight knots in your muscles that cause discomfort and limit movement.

Unlike acupuncture, which follows traditional Chinese medicine principles, dry needling is based on modern science. It helps by:

Releasing muscle tension

Reducing pain and inflammation

Improving blood flow and mobility

Many people feel relief after just one session. If you’re struggling with stubborn pain, dry needling could be the key to getting back to feeling your best.

March 18, 2025 No Comments

How to Run Faster and Longer in Fort Collins

Running in Fort Collins means enjoying scenic trails, high-altitude training benefits, and a strong running community. But if you’re struggling to improve your speed or endurance, it might be time to fine-tune your approach. Small adjustments to your form, strength, and conditioning can make a big difference.

At higher elevations, your muscles work harder to get the oxygen they need. Without the right training, you may feel fatigued faster or struggle to maintain your pace. The most common obstacles runners face include:

– Inefficient running form that drains energy
– Muscle imbalances that slow down your stride
– Poor breathing control that leads to early fatigue
– A lack of endurance training that limits your progress

The good news is that with the right strategies, you can train smarter, run faster, and go farther. Whether you’re preparing for a local race or just want to enjoy longer runs in the Colorado foothills, targeted physical therapy can help you reach your goals.

March 7, 2025 No Comments

Balance Exercises for Athletes: Physical Therapy for Stability and Confidence in Fort Collins

Physical therapy is not just for those recovering from surgery or injury. It’s a powerful tool for anyone looking to improve their balance, reduce the risk of falls, and regain a sense of stability in daily life. Balance exercises can also enhance athletic performance by developing essential skills like stability, strength, and agility.

In Fort Collins, where the active lifestyle is a part of the community’s DNA, maintaining good balance is essential for enjoying everything from a leisurely walk along Spring Creek Trail to tackling more challenging routes like Horsetooth Mountain.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into how physical therapy addresses key factors like hip and ankle stability, vestibular function, and eye movement coordination to enhance balance. By the end, you’ll understand why physical therapy might just be the most effective, long-term solution to improving your balance and reducing fall risks.

February 28, 2025 No Comments

how to heal a torn rotator cuff naturaly

How to Heal a Torn Rotator Cuff Naturally

A torn rotator cuff can make even simple movements feel impossible. Reaching for a glass, lifting a bag, or even sleeping comfortably becomes a challenge. You want to know how to heal a torn rotator cuff naturally, but is that possible?

The good news? Many rotator cuff tears don’t need surgery. With the right approach, your body can heal itself.

Natural recovery takes patience, but it’s possible with a mix of rest, gentle movement, and targeted therapies. The key is reducing inflammation, strengthening supportive muscles, and avoiding further strain.

You don’t have to live with pain or limited mobility forever. Let’s go over the best ways to help your shoulder heal without surgery.

February 18, 2025 No Comments

Hip Mobility Exercises to Unlock Power: Don’t Let Your Hips Hold You Back

When it comes to staying active and pain-free, your hips play a more vital role than you might think. Poor hip mobility doesn’t just affect your hips—it has a ripple effect on your entire body. The good news is hip mobility exercises can make all the difference!

If you’re an active adult or an outdoor enthusiast, improving your hip mobility can be the key to enjoying activities like hiking at Horsetooth Reservoir or running along Spring Creek Trail without pain.

But here’s the kicker: neglecting your hip mobility could lead to long-term issues like:
– Low back pain
– Knee discomfort
– Even Achilles problems

If your hips aren’t doing their job, other areas of your body will have to pick up the slack—and that often leads to pain or injury.

So, how can you improve your hip mobility, stay strong, and move better? Incorporating a hip mobility exercise routine can be the solution.

February 13, 2025 No Comments

AUTHOR

Dr. AJ Cohen

Up And Running Physical Therapy

"We Help Runners And Active Adults In The Fort Collins Area Overcome Injury And Be Stronger Than Ever, Avoid Unnecessary Time Off, All Without Medications, Injections, Or Surgery."