Back to Running My First Half-Marathon After IT Band Injury

Item: Zenith Performance and Wellness
Rating: 5
Author: Client

Kayla C.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Michael received his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Colorado. Always striving for the highest level of care, he became a Board Certified Orthopedic Specialist (OCS) in 2024. This commitment to continual learning is central to his approach. Michael particularly thrives when working with challenging, complex injuries—the kind that might not have gotten results after trying other treatments. He understands the frustration of persistent pain or lingering issues and is dedicated to digging deeper to find the root cause. His goal is not just temporary relief but sustainable rehabilitation to get people back to feeling their best and, crucially, staying at their best long-term.

Michael's treatment philosophy is simple yet powerful: Movement is Medicine. His approach is highly tailored, utilizing both advanced manual therapy skills to restore mobility and reduce pain, alongside progressive, activity-specific exercise to build lasting strength and resilience. He focuses on empowering patients, whether high-level athletes or everyday individuals looking to move through life without pain, to take control of their recovery. As a specialist in orthopedic physical therapy, he enjoys working with:

Athletes looking to return to peak performance.

Persistent pain cases that haven't responded to traditional care.

People from all walks of life seeking to improve their daily function and quality of life.

Michael's professional passion is deeply rooted in his personal interests. He is a lifelong sports enthusiast and understands the demands and joys of an active lifestyle. In his free time, you can find Michael playing soccer, basketball, or trail running. He also enjoys traveling and exploring the beautiful state of Oregon with friends and family.

Michael Duffy

Physical Therapist, Eugene, OR

April 23, 2026

Very grateful the university PT had no space because working with Zenith and Dr. Michael Duffy was not only extremely helpful as far as my running injury was concerned, but extremely fun! I actively looked forward each session to being welcomed by Allie at the front desk and updating Michael on my progress with the strength and stretching exercises he provided. He was super reassuring when it came to diagnosing my IT band pain and made sure I was comfortable with every aspect of the treatment plan (I did the 6 session plan plus the discounted Rockin' Runner PT Evaluation session)—and let me tell you, the treatment worked! Though my training had been interrupted by my injury, with the treatment I got with Zenith I am back and better than ever to run my first half-marathon! So excited, so grateful, and so happy to have supported this local business run by damn good people.

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What Clients Are Saying About Our PT

From weekend warriors to elite athletes, our clients trust Zenith for expert care and real results. Here is what they had to say about their experience with our PT—tailored support that helped them move, train, and feel their best.

Back to Running My First Half-Marathon After IT Band Injury

Very grateful the university PT had no space because working with Zenith and Dr. Michael Duffy was not only extremely helpful as far as my running injury was concerned, but extremely fun! I actively looked forward each session to being welcomed by Allie at the front desk and updating Michael on my progress with the strength and stretching exercises he provided. He was super reassuring when it came to diagnosing my IT band pain and made sure I was comfortable with every aspect of the treatment plan (I did the 6 session plan plus the discounted Rockin' Runner PT Evaluation session)—and let me tell you, the treatment worked! Though my training had been interrupted by my injury, with the treatment I got with Zenith I am back and better than ever to run my first half-marathon! So excited, so grateful, and so happy to have supported this local business run by damn good people.

Kayla C.

Back Pain Relief at 70

Micheal has limitless patience. Even when my pain level is out of control I'm 70 and stiff and sore every day and he has made my back pain bearable.

Kathleen H

Game-Changing Knee Injury Rehab

I cannot recommend Zenith enough! Their space is extremely well equipped while simultaneously being intimate and energizing. All of the staff there are incredibly welcoming and kind as well. I worked most closely with Dr. Mariel Hammond for a knee injury and it was truly game changing. Not only was she able to help me better understand my injury, she also helped me gain so much confidence in what I could and should be doing to get back to full speed as an elite athlete. After seeing multiple PT's around town, I can honestly say that my time at Zenith was invaluable. I only wish I came here sooner!

Morgan C