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

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

Kayla C

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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 Our Sports Physical Therapy

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 Sports Physical Therapy—tailored support that helped them move, train, and feel their best.

I PR things regularly and I'm stronger than ever

I love this place and the people who work there! I've been doing personal training for about 4 years now with them, and physical therapy from time to time as needed. Everyone I have worked with has been top notch, friendly and very helpful. I rehabbed from my ACL reconstruction, and got back to normal. My chronic back issues are under control thanks to lifting heavy with Ropheka. I'm stronger than ever. I PR things regularly, and I always look forward to my sessions! Cannot recommend enough!

Meagan M

Back on the trails feeling strong and healthy

I've been working with the team at Zenith Performance and Wellness for several years and have had a great experience. I originally came in with shin issues that were keeping me from the long-distance trail running I enjoy. They helped me understand the underlying causes, not just the symptoms, and got me back on the trails feeling strong and healthy. Since then, they've been a trusted resource whenever issues come up during training, providing practical advice, treatment, and education that keeps me moving. I've also taken advantage of their strength training classes, which have been excellent. Knowledgeable, friendly, and genuinely invested in their clients' success. Highly recommended.

Randy B