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

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

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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 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 22, 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 Zenith

From pain relief to peak performance, our clients share how Zenith’s expert physical therapy, strength training, and recovery services have helped them stay active. Read their stories ›

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Shana S.

"Six sessions with Mariel — moving differently and recovering faster"

Caitlyn H

"Back to running and stronger than ever after hamstring pain"

April P

"Back to heavy bench press at 65 after shoulder impingement"

Laura C

"From a permanent disability diagnosis to pain-free and athletic again"

Taylor B

"A year of work with Mariel - ready for the US Adventure Racing Nationals"

Reggie M