Endurance Sports Physical Therapy & Performance

TL;DR: Three weeks before the Marine Corps Marathon, I developed a sudden, sharp calf pain that threatened my race. Michael Rodriguez, DPT at Performance Running Gym diagnosed it immediately, treated it effectively, and got me to the start line healthy. Absolutely the go-to physical therapist for runners. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Review for Michael Rodriguez, DPT — Sports Medicine Physical Therapist I’m a 47-year-old recreational marathoner who was in the final stretch of training for the Marine Corps Marathon when, out of nowhere, I developed a sharp, bruise-like pain on the outside of my right calf — just three weeks before race day. The timing couldn’t have been worse, and I honestly thought my race might be over. Thankfully, Michael Rodriguez, DPT, located inside Performance Running Gym, was able to get me in quickly. He understood the urgency immediately and performed a focused, runner-specific assessment that pinpointed the problem. Michael explained exactly what was happening, why it came on suddenly, and what we needed to do to calm it down fast without derailing my race. His approach was a perfect mix of hands-on treatment, smart load management, and targeted strengthening that fit seamlessly with my taper. Within days, the pain reduced significantly. Within a short time, I was back to running with confidence — and I made it to the start line healthy and ready. I went on to run a 30-minute personal best, and his care was a major part of that success. If you’re a runner dealing with any lower-leg or overuse issue — calf strains, Achilles trouble, shin pain, hamstring strains — Michael Rodriguez is exceptional. He understands runners, understands timelines, and knows how to get you back to doing what you love safely and fast. I’m incredibly grateful for his help. He saved my race.

I started working with Michael after experiencing a calf strain while training for a marathon, which was just the latest in a years-long string of injuries. I'm working with Michael for run coaching and PT for the calf, and both have been wonderful experiences so far! For PT exercises, Michael gives in depth demonstrations about how they should be performed and really makes sure you feel comfortable performing them as well as explaining the purpose of each exercise and why they are being added to the progression at that time.

I found Michael after dealing with an 8 year-old injury that I had resigned myself to the fact I would have forever. I’d seen countless healthcare professionals, and no one was able to truly get me to improve, so I assumed my running days were being behind me. Fast forward to a year-ish after first meeting with Dr. Michael, and I just ran a half marathon pain free—a milestone I truly never thought I would achieve again. I wouldn’t be here without Michael’s expertise, wisdom, and attention. He even put up with my countless questions over email not infrequently (thanks Michael!). Cannot shout enough about how positive my experience was. I could go on and on!! Make the appointment!!