How long to rest an injury?

[SlowyMcSlowlegs]

Over a week ago I ran 6km for the first time but afterwards I really started to feel pain in my hip area at the top of the front of my leg. I rested it that weekend and then stupidly ignored it on Monday and went for a shorter run. I was in pain whenever I moved or put weight on my leg. I've not been running since. I feels better and the pain has decreased but I still feel a twinge when I start to walk. How long do I need to rest for? When I've not felt any pain for a number of days? I really want to get back out there and maybe start Ju-Ju's 5 to 10km plan next week but I'm scared that I'm going to start too soon and my body won't be ready.

[IannodaTruffe Graduate10]

There is no definitive answer, but this is what we mean by listening to your body. You will know when it feels good to go, but build up gently again.

[ArthurJG Graduate10]

I’d say rest till you’re not injured any more. By which. I mean you don’t feel pain when you’re not running and it doesn’t get sore quickly when you try to run - you can ignore the wee aches that come with starting to run after a rest but you’ve been running long enough to know the difference between them and an injury or threat of injury. Basically don’t run with an injury unless it’s something that isn’t affected by running.

[BaddieThePirate Graduate10]

Love your name. I hope you are back up and running soon.

[SlowyMcSlowlegs]

Thank you for your replies. It feels loads better but think I'll leave it a bit longer before pounding those streets!

[AnnieW55]

Please make sure your are pain free before you try again. If, after no pain on walking/moving it comes back then do see your medic. Let me know how it goes. I would be happy to receive a message from you (use that chat bubbles at top of page) rather than a post if you wish. Fingers crossed for a pain free run on your next attempt.