Getting Back Into Running at 52 (nearly 53)

Here is my story on how custom made orthotics and chiropractic care transformed my running journey.

I’ve been a keen runner on and off for years, completing a few 5Ks and 10Ks – not too seriously, just for fun. Years ago, I was diagnosed as an overpronator, which meant I was always limited to buying support running shoes.

In March 2023, after taking a few years off, I decided it was time to get back on track with my fitness goals. I joined a running club, starting with gentle jogs, assuming I’d never run a 10K again. Little did I know I’d be training for a full marathon within a year!

This is my journey back into running at the age of 52 – and how Dynamic Chiropractic played a key role in keeping me injury-free and pain-free.

The Return to Running and the Onset of Knee Pain

By May 2023, I was regularly running with my new club, which focused mainly on trail running. I invested in a pair of trail running shoes, and they were great. However, as the nights grew darker in autumn, we transitioned to road running. I bought a new pair of road running shoes, and everything seemed fine – at first.

As my mileage increased, I started to experience what I believed was a knee injury in November 2023. Like many runners, I ignored the discomfort, thinking it would pass. But it didn’t. Eventually, I took two weeks off over Christmas and New Year, hoping rest would help. The moment I resumed running, the pain returned – worse than ever.

I was devastated. I thought my running days might be over.

Finding the Root Cause and a Game-Changing Solution

Then, I had an epiphany: the pain had started when I bought my new road shoes! Determined to find a solution, I went to Runners Need at Chill Factore in Manchester for a gait analysis and new shoes. That’s when I was recommended to visit Dynamic Chiropractic in Sale for a FootBalance Orthotics Assessment.

At first, I was skeptical. Could custom orthotics really make a difference? But at this point, I was willing to try anything to get back to running pain-free.

I booked my appointment at Dynamic Chiropractic, where I was assessed and fitted for custom insoles. Although I wasn’t sure if they would work, I remained hopeful that this was the solution I needed.

The Moment Everything Changed

I placed my custom orthotics into my trusted trail running shoes (I had already abandoned the new road shoes), and – WOW! It was like flicking a switch. The pain disappeared instantly. It felt like magic!

Not only did the orthotics eliminate my knee pain, but they also improved my overall running form. I felt more stable, balanced, and efficient with every step.

Chiropractic Care: The Missing Piece of the Puzzle

During my visit, I saw Doug at Dynamic Chiropractic, who provided invaluable advice about running, training, and the importance of spinal health. Based on his recommendation, I booked a chiropractic adjustment to check my posture and overall alignment.

The results were incredible! After my chiropractic treatment, my movement felt more fluid, my running posture improved, and I noticed an overall boost in performance.

From Injury to Marathon Training

Since first visiting Dynamic Chiropractic, my running has gone from strength to strength:

• Multiple 10K races completed
• Several half marathons finished
• Two 20KM, 11 stage, multi-terrain races conquered
• Signed up for my first marathon – Manchester, April 2025!

To keep my body aligned, injury-free, and in peak condition, I now schedule regular chiropractic adjustments with Doug. As my marathon training intensifies, I plan to increase my chiropractic visits to stay on top of any minor imbalances or niggles before they turn into injuries.

Why Every Runner Should Visit a Chiropractor

If you’re training for your first 5K, half marathon, or even a full marathon, I cannot recommend Dynamic Chiropractic enough.

• Custom orthotics provide the right support for your feet and running gait.
• Chiropractic care enhances mobility, improves strength, endurance, balance, improves spinal alignment, and prevents injuries.
• Regular adjustments keep your body functioning optimally, allowing you to run pain-free.

Thanks to Doug and the team at Dynamic Chiropractic, I’m running stronger, faster, and pain-free – and I feel better than ever at 52 (nearly 53!), and that’s my story on how custom made orthotics and chiropractic care transformed my running journey.

Cat Haken.

If you’re a runner struggling with knee pain, back pain, or foot issues, book an appointment at Dynamic Chiropractic, Sale today. It could be the key to unlocking your best running performance yet!