Who is Mr Shelain Patel?

Mr Shelain Patel (BSc, MBBS, DipSEM, FRCS) is a consultant orthopaedic surgeon who works exclusively on foot and ankle conditions in London and Stanmore. He is one of only four foot and ankle surgeons at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital, the UK's top rated orthopaedic institution.

What conditions does Mr Shelain Patel treat?

He treats the full range of foot and ankle disorders including ankle sprains, ligament damage and instability, ankle arthritis and cartilage injuries, Achilles tendon tears and pain, bunions and big toe arthritis, flat feet and tibialis posterior tendon dysfunction, plantar fasciitis and heel pain, Morton's neuroma, foot drop following nerve and spine injuries, congenital and complex acquired deformities, and trauma including osteochondral lesions.

What surgery does Mr Shelain Patel perform?

Procedures include bunion correction, ankle replacement, ankle fusion, keyhole ankle arthroscopy and microfracture, Broström-Gould ligament repair, Achilles tendon repair and Haglund excision, big toe replacement and fusion, Morton's neuroma excision, flat foot and cavus foot reconstruction, minimally invasive metatarsal osteotomy, and tibialis posterior tendon transfer for foot drop. Only about one in three consultations leads to a discussion of surgery.

Where does Mr Shelain Patel practise?

His private practice is in the Harley Street district of Central London at HCA Princess Grace Hospital and King Edward VII's Hospital, and in North London at Spire Bushey, Elstree Waterfront and RNOH Private Care in Stanmore. The consultation address is 30 Devonshire Street, London, W1G 6PU.

How do I book a consultation with Mr Shelain Patel?

Consultations can be booked by contacting his secretary on 020 3960 1705 or by email at patelpa@gop.health. He accepts both private medical insurance and self pay patients.

Does Mr Shelain Patel offer second opinions?

Yes. Through his role at the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital he provides specialist second opinions for patients facing complex foot deformity or who have had unsuccessful previous treatment.

5 Essential Tips to Avoid Injuries During Marathon Training

Shelain Patel
Jun 24
2 min read

Training for a marathon is an exciting challenge that pushes your body and mind. Yet, many runners face setbacks due to injuries that could have been prevented. Avoiding injury is crucial not only to complete your marathon but also to enjoy the process and stay healthy long-term. This post shares five practical tips to help you train smart and stay injury-free.

Eye-level view of a runner’s feet on a trail path during morning training — Runner’s feet on trail path during morning training

Build Your Mileage Gradually

One of the most common causes of injury in marathon training is increasing mileage too quickly. Your muscles, tendons, and joints need time to adapt to the growing demands.

Increase your weekly running distance by no more than 10% each week.
Include a “cutback week” every 3 to 4 weeks where you reduce mileage to allow recovery.
Listen to your body: if you feel persistent soreness or fatigue, slow down your progression.

For example, if you run 20 miles in your first week, aim for 22 miles the next week, then 24. Keep this steady pace to avoid overuse injuries like shin splints or stress fractures.

Prioritize Proper Warm-Up and Cool-Down

Warming up prepares your muscles and joints for the workout ahead, reducing the risk of strains. Cooling down helps your body recover and prevents stiffness.

Start with 5 to 10 minutes of light jogging or brisk walking.
Add dynamic stretches such as leg swings, lunges, or arm circles before running.
After your run, spend 5 to 10 minutes walking to gradually lower your heart rate.
Finish with static stretches focusing on calves, hamstrings, quads, and hips.

Skipping these steps can lead to tight muscles and reduced flexibility, increasing injury risk.

Invest in Quality Running Shoes and Replace Them Regularly

Wearing the right shoes can make a big difference in injury prevention. Shoes that don’t fit well or have worn-out cushioning fail to support your feet properly.

Get fitted at a specialty running store where experts analyse your gait.
Choose shoes that match your foot type and running style.
Replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles, depending on wear and tear.

For example, worn-out shoes can cause knee pain or plantar fasciitis. Tracking your mileage and inspecting shoe soles regularly helps you know when it’s time for a new pair.

Incorporate Strength Training and Cross-Training

Running alone doesn’t build all the muscles you need to stay injury-free. Strength training improves muscle balance and joint stability, while cross-training reduces repetitive stress.

Include exercises targeting your core, hips, glutes, and legs twice a week.
Use bodyweight moves like squats, lunges, planks, and bridges.
Add low-impact activities such as swimming, cycling, or yoga on rest days.

Stronger muscles support your joints better, reducing common injuries like IT band syndrome or runner’s knee.

Listen to Your Body and Rest When Needed

Pushing through pain often leads to worse injuries. Learning to recognize warning signs and allowing time for recovery is essential.

Pay attention to sharp or persistent pain, swelling, or unusual discomfort.
Take rest days seriously; they allow your body to repair and strengthen.
Use active recovery like gentle walking or stretching on off days.
Consult a healthcare professional if pain lasts more than a few days.

For example, if you feel a nagging pain in your shin, resting early can prevent a stress fracture that might sideline you for weeks.