Recovery & transitions

Recurring Strains & Injuries: looking at the pattern behind it

When the same strain keeps coming back, it may be worth looking at the movement pattern rather than only the tissue. After an injury, the body can learn a workaround that sticks after healing. An assessment explores whether that's part of your picture, and can support your confidence in returning to activity alongside any rehabilitation care.

Written by Grace Campbell, NeuroKinetic Therapy® practitioner · Last reviewed October 2026

Practitioner assisting a kneeling client with a hip mobility exercise

Signs it may be worth assessing

  • The same injury recurring
  • One side noticeably different
  • Returning to activity doesn't feel right
  • Work or training repetition concerns

Patterns that may be explored

  • Hamstrings or calves taking on extra load
  • Compensations left over from old injuries
  • Left/right differences in training or sport
  • Restricted movement after surgery (with medical clearance)

Starting points for the assessment, not diagnoses.

How an assessment approaches recurring strains & injuries

Rather than focusing only on where it hurts, Grace looks at how the surrounding muscles are sharing the load. The session starts with your history, then movement observation, and may include gentle manual muscle testing as one input. From there you'll learn home exercises aimed at what the assessment showed.

Where it helps, Grace also uses hands-on techniques, such as myofascial or pressure point release, on the areas that are overworking. Which techniques are used depends on what the assessment shows. Sessions are $100, paid in person. If anything suggests you'd be better served by another professional, Grace will tell you.

FAQ

Recurring Strains & Injuries: common questions

Still unsure? Call 205-937-6869 or email Grace.

All questions
Can NKT find the root cause of my pain?

Pain can have many contributing factors, and no single assessment can identify the cause of every person's symptoms. NKT may offer one way to explore movement patterns, but findings should be considered alongside your history, symptoms, function, and appropriate healthcare assessment.

Does NKT replace medical care or physical therapy?

No. It shouldn't automatically replace medical evaluation or other appropriate treatment. Discuss your care plan with the relevant qualified professionals, especially for new, severe, worsening, or unexplained symptoms.

When should I see a doctor instead?

For sudden, severe or rapidly worsening pain, a new injury, possible fracture, chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, sudden severe headache, new weakness or numbness, fever, or any symptom that needs a diagnosis, seek medical care first. For emergencies, call 911.

SF Bay Area & Birmingham area · By appointment

Explore whether NKT may be a fit for your goals.

Send a quick request with a few days and times that work for you. Grace will reach out to confirm. Sessions are $100, paid in person.