Lisa Mitro, DPT (Physical Therapist for Runners)
PT specializing in runners; frequent training/recovery posts on foot/ankle strength, sleep, pain science, and return-to-run.
Symptoms Matter More than Diagnosis; Defy Limits
When I was 8 the doctors told me I shouldn’t ever play a sport that involved running because my asthma was so bad. Fast forward and I played college softball and have run 3 marathons. This is why it’s so important to go based off your symptoms vs a diagnosis
Prioritize Longevity: Listen to Your Body Over Speed
I think as you get older you learn to listen to your body more. You realize the game is about longevity, not just finishing the next race. It’s an important skill that takes time to improve
Focus on One Metric, Not All, for Joyful Runs
One way to suck the joy out of running is to focus on too many things at once- heart rate, pace, running form, effort level. I recommend picking one thing to work on at a time
Comfort Over Trend: Choose Shoes That Fit Your Feet
The best shoes are the ones that are most comfortable and work with your feet. This could mean a wide toe box if you have a bunion or a higher heel drop if you have Achilles pain. Don’t pick a...
Sunshine and Nature Soothe Both Kids and Adults
I know they say taking your kids out into nature is calming but it’s the same for adults. Sometimes all you need is a little outdoor time and sunshine
Normal Pronation, Tilt, and Painless Herniated Discs
Every foot and ankle should pronate. It’s a normal movement to go into an anterior pelvic tilt. And Herniated disc’s don’t automatically mean you will have pain and aren’t like a jelly donut
Low Expectations Make Postpartum Feel More Manageable
Post partum isn’t that bad if your expectations are low. Maybe ignorance is bliss with the first one because you just accept whatever is happening
Quality Care: 45‑Minute Pediatric Visit Makes All Difference
Doctors who take their time with each patient >>>> I know it can depend on their schedule, but our pediatrician took 45 minutes with us and it was so helpful
More Isn't Always Better: Runners Need Rest
A big mistake runners make is thinking more is always better- filling their schedule with more runs, more workouts, more cross training. While more volume can be beneficial there’s also a fine line where less is sometimes better, especially if...
Dad Learns Swaddling From Nurse, Proud of Two Girls
Bless my husband who asked the nurse to watch him swaddle and change the diaper for our baby girl to make sure he was doing it right. We are 2 lucky girls
Pelvic Floor PT Boosts Quality of Life, Not Just Leaks
Props to my nurse in the hospital for educating me about the importance of seeing a pelvic floor PT- not because I’m leaking but to improve quality of life👏
Previous Injuries Predict New Ones—Finish Rehab Fully
The biggest predictor of injury is previous injury. Make sure you 100% take care of your injury before you stop doing rehab exercises
Running Injuries Require Whole‑muscle Coordination, Not Single Fixes
Most injured runners look for one thing to fix- “I just need to strengthen my calves” or “I just need to strengthen my glute med” but reality is it’s never just one muscle that’s going to fix the pain. Muscles...
Strengthen Feet and Ankles to Boost Running Speed
One of the most overlooked ways to run faster is my strengthening your feet and ankles. This includes your toes 🦶🏻
Runners Swear By OOFOS Sandals for Recovery
Thoughts on OOFOS sandals? I have a lot of sandals but the more I talk to runners, the more they swear by them