Struggling

[Spookysmum]

Having graduated at the beginning of the month & since then following the 'stepping stones' NHS podcasts, I was really quite enjoying running & pleased I was able to keep up the pace. But for my last 4 'runs' (3rd one was a full run) I've ended up walking due to hip pain! I know I have RA but it's generally not affected my left hip! I've had gait analysis done & have the right shoes (sorting out the pronation on my right side!). I'm frustrated but not sure what I've done to cause this..... any advice would be gratefully received.

[Beatlesforever Graduate10]

So sorry to hear that. I'm afraid I don't have any advice other than maybe see your GP or try to get an appointment with a physiotherapist, who should be able to recommend strengthening exercises to help you stay injury-free. In the meantime, maybe take a break from running for a few days to avoid causing any lasting damage. Hope you recover soon 🍀

[Spookysmum in reply to Beatlesforever]

Thank you.. Xx

[Irishprincess Graduate10]

I assume you haven’t increased your mileage too much and that you are warming up and stretching after each run? If you don’t do it already then perhaps consider Pilates or yoga? Pilates especially really strengthens the core which helps hip stability.

Maybe take a few days off and do a few gentle stretches then try a slow run, not stepping stones. If you’re still getting pain then it’s probably best to see a sports physio if you can for a proper assessment.

I hope it settles down but keep us updated on how you get on.

[Spookysmum in reply to Irishprincess]

I'm following the same route I used for the last few weeks of the c25k which does involve going up hill - unavoidable where I live in North Devon, & doing around 5 km so not increased mileage! I am only running 3 times a week with rest days in between which is adding to my frustration (none of my runs I would consider as fast but maybe I'll take a step back & redo sections of c25k again after a few more days off & build back up) ! Will look at pilates/yoga- great suggestions, thank you. X

[Irishprincess Graduate10 in reply to Spookysmum]

Maybe trying a different route too and mix things up a bit....? Also, try doing exercises that work on one side at a time eg, bicycle crunches, one leg squats, etc as these are great at helping to iron out any imbalances in the body. Check out some YouTube videos.

[Grannyhugs Graduate10]

If you have persistent pain then please book to see or talk to a sports physio. They will be best placed to understand your story and work out how to progress before making things worse. Take care 🤗

[Spookysmum]

Update - I saw an osteopath who thinks I have either bursitis in my hip joint or a ligament strain so have been advised not to run at present & have been given exercises to do daily. Hoping when reviwed in another week, I'll be about to start running again, especially as planned 5k charity run on Halloween! Missing the runs but determined I won't be giving up!