Columbia's Top Physical Therapists for Runner's Knee
Your training plan is on track, but knee pain shows up at mile 3 and won't quit. Salerno Sports Therapy offers runner's knee physical therapy in Columbia for runners who want to fix the problem, build knee strength, and stay on pace for their goals.
You're Stuck Between Pain and Your Training Goals
Pain Shows Up at the Same Mileage
Every run feels fine until you hit mile 3 or 5, then the familiar ache starts around your kneecap. You slow down, cut the run short, and watch your weekly mileage drop.
Rest Doesn't Fix It
You take a few days off, feel better, then the pain returns as soon as you push the pace or add volume. You're stuck in a cycle of backing off and hoping it goes away.
You're Told to Stop Running
Doctors say take weeks off or switch to the bike, but your race is coming up and stopping isn't a real solution—it's just avoiding the problem.
Knee-Focused PT That Keeps You Running
We don't just treat knee pain—we find out why it's happening and fix the root cause. Every plan includes detailed gait analysis, strength testing, and a clear progression so you can keep training while we build resilience in your knee.
From Pain to Performance in Three Steps
Talk with us
Schedule a free discovery call so we can learn about your goals, training, and what's been holding you back.
Get your assessment
Complete a full movement and strength assessment with sport-specific testing like running gait analysis or a Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) golf screen.
Follow your plan
Work through one-on-one, exercise-first sessions that build strength, restore confidence, and get you back to your sport.
What Columbia Runners Are Saying
Hear from runners in Columbia who fixed their knee pain and got back to training stronger than before.
For people of all ages and skill levels, preparation and recovery are key! Dr. Salerno has provided me with all the pre and post round exercises/stretches I need to keep myself in "playing" shape. I highly recommend giving SST a call!
Jay and the team at Salerno Sports Therapy have always provided me great service. Whether it's a small nagging injury or a bigger problem, Jay has the knowledge to not only get me feeling better but make sure it doesn't happen again and I can keep doing the things I love to do
Jay is awesome! He has been instrumental in solving my knee pain and issues while marathon training. He is incredibly knowledgeable and gave me a full strategy to fix my current problems and work to prevent them in the future!
SST was key to my training and prep for my first half marathon. Jay helped me stay injury free as I ramped up the intensity of my runs, and he was willing to help me remotely when I couldn't make in person sessions.
Very professional and highly recommend! I went to see Jay after a week off running due to injury. I had the Chicago marathon approaching in about 2 weeks and really wanted to be healthy and run. Jay worked hard and diligently to get me ready for the marathon — in a short time— and I was able to run the marathon, snag a PR & BQ. Jay continued to work with me post marathon to make sure I had the tools to keep my hips healthy and stronger. I’m happy with my decision to choose Salerno Sports Therapy for my PT needs!
Jay has done an outstanding job working with me. I came to him with bilateral elbow pain and have left with no more pain! He is extremely thorough with his initial evaluation in order to prescribe you with the best possible care. I would highly recommend Salerno Sports Therapy to anyone with any nagging aches and pains OR if you want to prevent those nagging aches and pains from happening. Give Jay a call!
Serving Columbia and more
We're located in Columbia and serve active adults and athletes across Forest Acres, Shandon, Heathwood, Melrose Heights, and the greater Columbia area. If you're looking for performance-focused physical therapy near you, we're here to help.
FAQs
Common questions about runner's knee physical therapy at Salerno Sports Therapy.
Not usually. We modify your training volume and intensity while we address the root cause. Most runners continue running at reduced mileage or adjusted paces while we build strength and fix mechanics.
It depends on how long you've been dealing with pain and your upcoming race schedule. Most runners see significant improvement in 4-6 weeks, but we'll give you a realistic timeline after your assessment.
Runner's knee is usually caused by a combination of factors: weak hips and glutes that can't stabilize the leg, tight muscles that pull the kneecap off track, poor running mechanics, or sudden increases in training volume. We test for all of these during your evaluation.
Absolutely. If you have a coach or follow a specific training plan, we'll coordinate so your rehab work aligns with your running schedule. We want everyone on the same page so you can train smart and stay healthy.
Yes. By addressing weakness patterns, improving mechanics, and building resilience in your knees and hips, you'll be less likely to deal with recurring knee pain. Many runners continue with us for performance work even after their pain is resolved.
Still have questions?
Reach out and we'll walk you through how it works.
Ready to Run Without Knee Pain?
Schedule a free discovery call and let's build a plan to keep you on track for your next race.
