If you're looking for a clinic that will challenge you and deliver positive results, I highly recommend the Charlotte Athlete.

I’ve had a great experience with Dr. Z at the Charlotte Athlete.

I’ve had a great experience with Dr. Marissa and the team at Charlotte Athlete. I’m so glad I stopped in for a free assessment!

Fred hip release

Don't Let Injuries Derail Your Running Goals

Without proper running-specific rehabilitation, you risk recurring injuries, compromised performance, and potentially losing your passion for running.

tired

Continuing to run through pain can lead to compensatory movement patterns and additional injuries

target-lock

Generic physical therapy often fails to address the biomechanical demands specific to runners

line-chart-down

Improper recovery can result in chronic issues that limit your mileage and performance long-term

Why Choose Us?

Charlotte's Premier Physical Therapy for Runners

The Charlotte Athlete specializes in getting runners back on the road, trail, or track with comprehensive care that addresses both symptoms and root causes.

book-reader
Runner-Specific Analysis

Comprehensive gait and biomechanical assessment to identify the true source of your pain

icon
Custom Recovery Plans

Tailored running PT programs designed for your specific injury, goals, and running style

icon-2
Performance Enhancement

Not just pain relief—improve your form, efficiency, and resilience to prevent future injuries

manual-therapy-9
Screen Shot 2023-08-28 at 10.47.52 AM
Screen Shot 2023-10-16 at 8.45.14 AM
How It Works

Your Path Back to Pain-Free Running

Our specialized running physical therapy process is designed to address current injuries and prevent future problems through comprehensive assessment and treatment.

calendar

Runner's Assessment

Complete a thorough running analysis to identify biomechanical issues and movement patterns

icon

Customized Treatment 

Receive targeted interventions for common running injuries including plantar fasciitis, IT band syndrome, and runner's knee

icon-1

Return-to-Running Program

Progress through a gradual, structured program that safely returns you to your optimal running capacity

What Our Patients Are Saying

Real reviews from patients at our physical therapy clinic

Google Icons

"After working with a few different physical therapists over the past couple years, I can confidently say that I’ve found someone who truly stands out. From the moment I started my sessions with Dr. Leah at The Charlotte Athlete, I noticed a difference. She took the time to understand my specific needs, my crazy goals, and the nature of each injury. I really appreciate her attention to detail and knowledge. Every session is focused on improving my mobility, and overall performance."

Colleen Demmy
Colleen Demmy
Google Icons

"I cannot recommend The Charlotte Athlete enough! Dr. Leah Roten has been instrumental in keeping my body healthy and happy. Her expertise, dedication, and personalized care make every session a rewarding experience. Thanks to Dr. Leah, I feel stronger, more flexible, and pain-free. If you're looking for a top-notch physical therapist who truly cares about your health, look no further than The Charlotte Athlete. They are simply the best!"

Jama Johnston
Jama Johnston
Google Icons

"From start to finish, I have had a wonderful experience at The Charlotte Athlete. Dr Leah is amazing - not only did she help heal my back pain from a herniated disc, Dr Leah helped me understand exactly WHY I was experiencing pain. She is extremely knowledgeable and patient with her clients - a true expert in her craft. My only regret was not coming here soon enough - I would have saved countless hours (and thousands of dollars) spent at Orthocarolina who insisted on surgery. I am so glad I did not go that route!"

Anisha Amin
Anisha Amin
Google Icons

"The Charlotte Athlete, and specifically Dr. Michelle, was fantastic to work with as I rehabbed a long-standing bout with jumpers knee. She really spends the time getting to analyze your unique needs and tailors a plan specific to your goals. Many places take a fairly cookie-cutter approach to rehab, but Dr. Michelle is a great example of personalized 1:1 coaching while explaining to you the “why” behind what you need to rebuild and focus on. I would highly recommend them to anyone looking for physical therapy.

Patrick Bellucci
Patrick Bellucci
Google Icons

"I was having elbow & forearm pain for several months. Thought it would go away over time, but that was not the case. My gym/trainer referred me to Charlotte Athlete, where I had the pleasure of working with Dr. Leah. She did an awesome job - identified the underlying cause, where to improve my form, correct muscle engagement and exercises to get my arm back in working shape. I'm happy to say that my arm is feeling great, and that now I have the tools & knowledge to keep it that way. Definitely recommend Charlotte Athlete & Dr. Leah - thank you!

user-icon-circle
Aaron Schlosser

Start Your Running Comeback Today

Schedule your consultation to discuss your running injuries, performance goals, and how our specialized running physical therapy can help you achieve your personal best.