Running is one of the most rewarding and efficient ways to stay fit — but it’s also a sport that demands precision, balance, and strength. Even small differences between your right and left sides can lead to pain, slower times, or recurring injuries.
At Control Physical Therapy, we use force plate testing to help runners in Chandler, Tempe, and the East Valley identify hidden asymmetries and performance gaps. This advanced biomechanical testing allows us to pinpoint inefficiencies that can’t be seen with the naked eye, giving runners the data they need to train smarter, recover faster, and stay injury-free.
What Is Force Plate Testing?
Force plates are highly sensitive platforms that measure how your body produces and absorbs force during movement. When you walk, run, or jump on them, they record data in milliseconds — capturing balance, power output, ground reaction forces, and symmetry between limbs.
At Control Physical Therapy, we integrate this technology into our runner assessments to evaluate movement patterns during:
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Running gait analysis
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Jump testing for power and stability
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Balance and single-leg control
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Return-to-sport readiness after injury
This data-driven approach allows us to tailor rehabilitation and performance programs based on your exact movement profile.
Why Runners Benefit from Force Plate Testing
Every runner has some degree of asymmetry — but when one leg consistently absorbs more impact or produces less power, it can lead to overuse injuries such as:
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Achilles tendinopathy
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IT band syndrome
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Patellofemoral (kneecap) pain
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Shin splints or stress reactions
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Hip or lower back pain
Force plate testing provides objective numbers showing how your legs compare in strength, timing, and stability. From there, our physical therapists at Control Physical Therapy design individualized programs that correct imbalances and improve efficiency.
Benefits for Runners Include
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Identifying early signs of overuse before pain develops
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Quantifying power and balance differences between legs
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Tracking progress throughout rehabilitation or training
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Optimizing running economy and stride mechanics
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Reducing risk of re-injury after surgery or chronic pain
How We Use Force Plate Data in Rehab and Performance
At Control Physical Therapy, force plate testing isn’t just for elite athletes — it’s for anyone who wants to understand how they move and how to move better.
After collecting your data, our team reviews metrics such as vertical force, rate of loading, and symmetry index. This information is then used to:
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Target specific muscle weaknesses with strength and stability exercises
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Improve dynamic balance and landing mechanics
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Customize running drills that reinforce better movement patterns
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Monitor recovery milestones objectively after an injury or surgery
By blending advanced testing with one-on-one, hands-on care, we help runners bridge the gap between rehab and performance.
Why Choose Control Physical Therapy in Chandler
Our clinic provides evidence-based, personalized physical therapy and performance testing for runners, athletes, and active adults across the Valley. Led by Dr. Gregory McLarty, DPT, we combine expertise with cutting-edge technology to deliver measurable results.
What sets us apart:
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One-on-one physical therapy sessions — never rushed or double-booked
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Force plate and biomechanical movement analysis for every level of runner
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Custom rehabilitation and performance programs
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Advanced treatment options including dry needling, cupping, and blood flow restriction (BFR) therapy
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Locally owned, trusted, and serving Chandler, Tempe, Gilbert, and the Phoenix Metro since 2018
Our mission is simple — help you move efficiently, recover fully, and perform at your best.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do I need to be an elite runner to benefit from force plate testing?
Not at all. We work with recreational runners, high school athletes, and weekend warriors who want to run with better form and fewer injuries.
Q: Is the testing painful?
No. Force plate testing is non-invasive and takes only a few minutes. You’ll perform simple movements like squats, jumps, or running strides while the sensors record data.
Q: How often should I get tested?
We recommend testing at the start of training cycles, after injuries, or whenever you feel imbalances or recurring tightness.
Run Smarter with Data-Driven Insights
If you’re serious about improving your running efficiency or overcoming nagging pain, force plate testing can give you the answers you’ve been missing. Let Control Physical Therapy in Chandler help you identify asymmetries, close performance gaps, and keep you running strong.
Call today at (480) 474-4921 to schedule your free estimate!