Expert Running Physical Therapy in Roanoke, VA
Pain shouldn't keep you from the miles you love. At Alchemy Sports Performance and Rehabilitation, we specialize in getting Roanoke's runners back on the road with one-on-one physical therapy that targets the root cause — not just the symptoms. No referrals needed. Start with a free discovery call.
You're Stuck on the Sidelines
Runner's knee, IT band flare-ups, shin splints, Achilles pain — the injuries are different but the result is the same: you can't do the activity you love. Rest alone isn't the answer.
Still Running Through Pain — Or Not Running at All?
You're Getting Treated, Not Understood
High-volume clinics rush you in and out with little time to listen. You see a different provider every visit, get the same generic exercises, and never learn why the pain started in the first place.
Fixes That Don't Last
Foam rolling, ice, and ibuprofen may take the edge off, but they don't fix the root cause. Without addressing your movement patterns and mechanics, the injury keeps coming back — every training cycle.
Roanoke's Running Physical Therapy Clinic That Gets It
At Alchemy, we don't just treat injuries — we find out why they happened and build you back stronger. Every session is 60 minutes of one-on-one care with a highly trained Doctor of Physical Therapy who listens, assesses, and creates a personalized plan to get you running again — and keep you there.
60-minute one-on-one sessions — no double-booking, no rushing, no aides
Root-cause diagnosis with advanced techniques: dry needling, cupping, Graston/IASTM & joint manipulation
Running gait analysis and personalized return-to-running programming — so you come back stronger, not just symptom-free
"She didn't just treat the injury — she looked at the full picture. She worked on my calves, hips, and overall running form, helping me build a stronger, more balanced foundation. Because of her, I was able to not only run my race, but truly crush my goal."
Mobilize
We start with a thorough movement assessment and hands-on manual therapy — dry needling, joint mobilization, cupping, and soft tissue work — to reduce pain, restore mobility, and unlock the full picture of what's holding you back.
Our 3-Step Process to Get You Back to Running
Optimize
With pain under control, we analyze your running gait, identify movement inefficiencies, and build a progressive strength and corrective exercise program designed specifically for your body, your sport, and your goals.
Revitalize
You return to running with a stronger foundation, better mechanics, and a clear injury prevention plan — so you don't just get back to the starting line, you cross the finish line feeling better than ever.
Running Physical Therapy for Roanoke's Most Common Injuries
Whether you're training for your first 5K or chasing a PR in your next marathon, running injuries can derail everything. Our physical therapists are experts in diagnosing and treating the full spectrum of running-related pain — and getting you back on the road near me faster than you think possible.
Knee & lower leg: Runner's knee (patellofemoral pain), IT band syndrome, shin splints, Achilles tendinopathy, and patellar tendonitis
Hip & pelvis: Hip impingement (FAI), hip flexor strain, labral tear, groin pain, and hamstring strain affecting your stride and power
Foot, ankle & back: Plantar fasciitis, ankle sprains, low back pain, and sciatica that flares with mileage or long training runs
What Roanoke Runners Are Saying About Alchemy
"I was training for my first marathon when I developed hip flexor pain. Deanna was honest and helpful regarding my injury and what my options looked like. She helped set up my next steps for healing. It is so evident that she wants you to reach your goal."
— Katie Lee Howington"Dr. Deanna has helped me with acute knee pain, a shoulder injury, my chronic back pain, and overall tension using techniques like needling, cupping, and general physical therapy. She always ensures I understand the root cause of the pain and what we can do to counteract it."
— Kelly "Deanna has been my physical therapist for the last 4 years helping me with my ongoing vertigo issues and a recent shoulder injury. She is not only highly skilled and knowledgeable, but personable and easy going. Her techniques like dry needling and cupping have greatly helped me."
— Kirston KeslerMeet the Team Behind Alchemy Sports Performance and Rehabilitation
Deanna Palatucci, PT, DPT, MS, ATC — Founder & Physical Therapist
A Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of Pittsburgh, a Master's from Tennessee, and over a decade of experience spanning Division I, professional, and international sport. Deanna founded Alchemy after growing frustrated with insurance-driven care that kept patients from getting what they truly needed. Specialties: Orthopedic PT, Sports Medicine, Manual Therapy, Return-to-Sport Rehab.
Kendal Jones, PT, DPT, DNC — Physical Therapist
A former Division I softball catcher at Virginia Tech and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Marymount University, Kendal brings 13+ years of experience with athletes and active individuals of all ages. Dry Needling Certified and known for her hands-on, goal-driven approach. Specialties: Runners, Endurance Athletes, Overhead Athletes, Movement Retraining, Strength & Performance.
Ephraim Hadly, BA — Office Administrator
Ephraim keeps Alchemy running smoothly — from your first call to your final appointment. With a background in community-focused organizations and a passion for the outdoors, he brings warmth and organization to every patient interaction. Your experience starts with him.
Find Us in Downtown Roanoke
We're located right in the heart of Downtown Roanoke — just 0.2 miles and 2 minutes from Downtown Roanoke via Church Ave. Head toward Church Ave SE, turn left, and you'll find us at Suite 200. Street parking and garage parking are available nearby.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know before your first visit to our Roanoke running physical therapy clinic
Do I need a doctor's referral to be seen at Alchemy?
No referral needed. Virginia is a direct access state, which means you can schedule with our physical therapists without a physician's referral. You can book a free discovery call, speak directly with a licensed DPT, and get started right away — no waiting, no extra appointments.
How does pricing work? Can I use my insurance?
Alchemy operates on a transparent self-pay model, which means we don't bill insurance directly. This allows us to spend the full 60 minutes with you every session — no restrictions, no rushing. Many patients submit their receipts to their private insurer for out-of-network reimbursement and recover a significant portion of the cost. We're happy to provide the documentation you need. Call us or book a discovery call to discuss current rates.
What should I expect at my first appointment?
Your first session is a comprehensive one-on-one evaluation with your physical therapist — not a tech, not an aide. We'll take a full history, assess your movement patterns, discuss your goals, and leave you with a clear diagnosis, a treatment plan, and exercises to start that same day. Most patients leave their first visit feeling better physically and more empowered than they expected.