When Nothing Seems to Work: A New Path Forward for Injured Runners
If you’re a runner—or the parent or coach of one—chronic injuries can feel like a dead end. Lately, I’ve been hearing from more and more middle school, high school, and college athletes who’ve been sidelined for weeks, months, or even entire seasons. Many have already tried physical therapy, chiropractic care, rest, ice, and even seen doctors… but they’re still stuck.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and I want you to know, there’s real hope.
I’m Ralph Havens, PT, IMTC, and I help runners heal—when nothing else has worked.
Over the past few months, I’ve worked with athletes who had all but given up. Some came in after months—or years—of pain. Some were on the verge of quitting. Others were told to just rest (again) and hope for the best.
And yet, after just a few sessions, many of these runners are back. Running. Racing. PR’ing. Even sleeping better. Here are a few examples:
Real Runners. Real Results.
✅ Middle school runner with year-long knee pain
Nothing had helped—not PT, not rest. Within two weeks of working together, the runner was back to running. A month later, ran a PR and said, “I couldn’t have done it without you.”
✅ High schooler with severe hip pain
This runner couldn’t run more than a few steps and had already lost a full season despite working with a solid PT. After one session, this runner was jogging again. Three sessions later: pain-free and running speed reps. This runner is now back to racing—and interestingly, a long-term insomnia was also resolved.
✅ College distance runner stuck at 10 miles a week due to hip pain
This runner hadn’t sprinted in months. We only had time for two sessions before I caught a cold and had to pause—but even without full training, this runner PR’d in the final race of the season.
What’s Different About What I Do?
I use a highly specialized form of care called Integrative Manual Therapy, along with a biomechanics method called Helix Biomechanics. This approach addresses the root causes of pain and dysfunction—often the things traditional treatments miss.
I also work with the nervous system, fascia, and deeper stress patterns that hold runners back. Many athletes experience immediate changes in stride, alignment, and comfort—even during the first session.
Want to see it for yourself? I’ve put together a short video with slow-motion before-and-after footage from local runners (some you might recognize):
👉 Watch the Helix Biomechanics Video
You Don’t Have to Stay Injured
If you or a runner you know is dealing with a long-term injury that hasn’t responded to PT, chiro, or conventional care, let’s connect. I offer in-person sessions at my clinic in Fairhaven and also work with runners around the world via Zoom.
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—but there is a real, effective path forward for runners who want to heal and get back to doing what they love.
To learn more about how I work and read stories of recovery, visit my blog here:
👉 https://www.ralphhavens.com/Blog/
Ready to Get Back on Track?
Ralph Havens, PT, IMTC
Certified Integrative Manual Therapy
Beyond Limits Physical Therapy
📍 1134 10th Street, Bellingham, WA (Fairhaven)
🌎 Worldwide via Zoom
📞 360.599.2217
💻 www.ralphhavens.com
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