Physiotherapy for runners

First Choice Spinal & Sports Physiotherapy helps runners across the Blue Mountains — from our Lawson and Warrimoo clinics — return to the road after injury and run stronger. APA Titled Musculoskeletal Physiotherapist Jason Wheeler analyses how you move, finds the real cause of your pain, and builds a precise plan.

Running assessment · injury treatment · strength & load management

From your first park run to your next marathon, the right assessment keeps you running. We analyse how you move, find what's driving your pain or limiting your performance, and build a plan to get you back on the road — stronger and more resilient. An ultramarathon runner himself, Jason understands first-hand the demands distance running places on the body. Research-based. Protocol driven. Outcomes focused.

How we help runners

Whether you're in pain, recovering from surgery or chasing a personal best, we take the time to understand your symptoms and running history, give you an accurate diagnosis, and build a targeted plan across three areas: a running assessment, hands-on injury treatment, and strength & load management.

Running assessment

An assessment of your running technique to find the mechanics behind your injury or holding back your performance.

Injury treatment

Hands-on treatment and graded rehab for stress fractures, tendinopathies, shin, knee, hip and foot & heel pain.

Strength & load management

Functional strength programs and training-load guidance so you can build mileage without breaking down.

Jason Wheeler, physiotherapist, at a Blue Mountains lookout in running kit

Running injuries we treat

We're all athletes, and no athlete likes being injured. We treat traumatic injuries, overuse injuries and strains — taking the time to understand your presenting symptoms and injury history so you receive an accurate diagnosis and a precise, targeted plan to meet and exceed your goals.

Sports injuries

Elite professionals or weekend warriors. Traumatic injuries, overuse injuries or strains — we're here for you.

Injuries we treat & rehabilitate
  • Muscle injuries; fractures including stress fractures
  • Tendinopathies; ligament sprains & tears
  • Hip joint injuries / labral pathology
  • ACL, meniscal & ligamentous knee injuries
  • Ankle & syndesmosis injuries; foot & heel pain
  • Exercise-related back pain; lumbar stress fractures
  • Osteoarthritis in athletes; pre- & post-surgery rehab

Treatments we use

Hands-on treatment plus a home program built around your running goals.

How we treat & rehabilitate
  • Hands-on manual therapy (mobilisations & manipulations)
  • Soft tissue release
  • Taping (rigid or kinesiotape)
  • Dry needling
  • Running & ergonomic/postural assessments
  • Functional strength & rehabilitation programs
  • Home exercise program with videos via an app

What to expect at your running assessment

Not sure what happens at a physio appointment? Here's how your first visit works at First Choice — unhurried, thorough, and built around getting you an accurate diagnosis and a clear plan to get you back on the road.

A real conversation

We take a full history and listen — your symptoms, your goals, and what you want to get back to.

A hands-on assessment

A thorough physical assessment, including your running technique, to reach an accurate diagnosis of what's actually going on.

A plan you understand

A clear, tailored treatment plan — plus hands-on treatment on the day, and a home program sent to an app with videos.

Please bring any scans or referrals, and wear comfortable clothing you can move in. Initial appointments run 45–60 minutes; follow-ups are 30–45 minutes.

Runner FAQs

Quick answers on referrals, private health and appointments for runners. Still unsure? Call us on 0490 326 311 — we're happy to help.

Do I need a referral to see a physio for a running injury?

No — you can book directly with us. A GP referral is only needed if you want to claim a Medicare rebate under a Chronic Disease Management (CDM/EPC) plan, or for some WorkCover and NDIS arrangements.

Can I claim private health insurance?

Yes — claim on the spot using our HICAPS terminal, so you only pay the gap. The rebate varies between funds and levels of cover.

How long is a running assessment?

Initial appointments are 45–60 minutes so Jason can fully assess your injury and running technique; follow-ups are 30–45 minutes. Every session is in a private room and includes a home exercise program with videos via an app.

Where are your clinics?

Two Blue Mountains clinics: Lawson (Shop 2, 9 Staples Crescent) and Warrimoo (33 Spurwood Road). Home visits are available between Glenbrook and Katoomba.

Ready to get back on the road? Get in touch or call us on 0490 326 311.

Call us — 0490 326 311