The Comrades Marathon isn’t just a race — it’s a triumph of endurance, spirit, and dedication. But whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned ultra-runner, pushing your body to this extreme often comes with a price: running injuries.
At Broadacres Physio, based in Broadacres (Fourways), we specialize in helping runners prevent, manage, and recover from the physical demands of long-distance running — especially events like the Comrades. If you’re nursing a sore knee, battling plantar fasciitis, or simply want to move better post-marathon, we’re here for you.
Keep reading to learn about common Comrades Marathon injuries, how to treat them, and how Broadacres Physio can get you back on the road safely.
Visit www.baphysio.co.za to book your post-race recovery session today.
Why Running Injuries Are So Common Post-Comrades
Clocking over 80km on varied terrain puts enormous stress on the musculoskeletal system. While your heart and lungs are trained for endurance, your joints, muscles, and tendons are often pushed past their limit during events like the Comrades.
Here are some reasons runners land up in our Broadacres physio clinic after the race:
- Sudden increase in mileage
- Incorrect footwear
- Muscle imbalances or weakness
- Poor running technique
- Inadequate recovery or rest
- Insufficient warm-up or cool-down routines
The most important thing to know is: you don’t have to live with pain. Running is a high-impact sport, but with the right treatment and guidance, recovery can be smooth, fast, and effective.
Top Comrades Marathon Injuries We Treat at Broadacres Physio
Our clinic sees a wide range of running-related injuries, especially around major races. Some of the most common include:
1. Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
A sharp, burning pain on the outside of the knee caused by a tight or inflamed IT band. Common in long-distance runners and downhill stages of the Comrades.
2. Shin Splints
Pain along the inner edge of the shinbone due to overuse or improper footwear. If ignored, it can turn into a stress fracture.
3. Plantar Fasciitis
Heel pain caused by inflammation of the foot’s arch. Often worsened by long hours of running on hard surfaces.
4. Runner’s Knee (Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)
A dull ache behind the kneecap, often caused by poor tracking or weak quadriceps.
5. Achilles Tendonitis
Stiffness and pain along the back of the ankle, especially in the mornings or after running.
6. Hamstring and Calf Strains
Tightness, microtears, or pulls due to overuse or lack of flexibility.
How Broadacres Physio Helps You Recover from Running Injuries
At Broadacres Physio, we go beyond symptom treatment — we dig deep to uncover the cause of your injury and provide a personalised recovery plan that supports both healing and performance.
Here’s how we help Comrades runners bounce back stronger:
✅ Comprehensive Clinical Evaluation
We start by assessing your gait, posture, strength, range of motion, and running history. This allows us to identify contributing factors to your injury — not just treat the pain.
✅ Hands-On Treatment
We use techniques such as:
- Soft tissue massage
- Dry needling
- Myofascial release
- Joint mobilisation
- Taping and strapping
- Cryotherapy or ultrasound for inflammation
✅ Strengthening and Stability Training
We target weaknesses, imbalances, and poor activation patterns — especially in your glutes, core, and hips. These are critical for runners.
✅ Biomechanical Correction
Bad form leads to recurring injuries. Our physios can help adjust your running mechanics for long-term efficiency and injury prevention.
✅ Return-to-Run Progressions
You’ll receive a customised return-to-run plan so you ease back into training safely — without risking further injury.
✅ Collaboration with Biokinetics
Located in the same space as Kelly Frames Biokinetics, we offer a full-spectrum rehab program under one roof. From acute injury to peak performance — we’ve got your back (and knees, and feet!).
When Should You See a Physiotherapist After Comrades?
- If you’re still in pain 1 week after the event
- If you’re feeling tightness, stiffness, or swelling
- If your running mechanics have changed
- If you feel numbness or tingling
- Or if you simply want to recover better and faster
The sooner you get assessed, the quicker (and safer) your recovery will be.
Recovery Tips for Post-Marathon Runners
- Hydrate deeply and consistently
- Eat nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory foods
- Get proper sleep
- Don’t rush back into hard training
- Foam roll and stretch daily
- Book a sports massage or physiotherapy session within a week post-race
Book Your Recovery with Broadacres Physio Today
Whether you’re nursing a nagging injury or just want to give your body the best chance at recovery after Comrades, Broadacres Physio in Fourways is ready to help.
We are the trusted name in running injury treatment and rehabilitation in the Fourways area, offering hands-on, personalised care that runners can count on.
📍 Visit us at Broadacres Physio in Fourways
📞 Call us on 011 467 8300
📧 Email us at admin@baphysio.co.za
🌐 www.baphysio.co.za
Let’s get you moving, healing, and thriving — the way your body was designed to.
Run Stronger, Recover Smarter – with Broadacres Physio
At Broadacres Physio, your running goals are our priority. We understand the unique demands of endurance sports like the Comrades Marathon and are here to help you train smarter, recover better, and return to the road stronger than before.
Let’s keep you moving. Book your session today at www.baphysio.co.za.
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