Lower back pain

[Latecomer]

Would really like some advice on this! I graduated in December and did 5 consolidation runs with Laura on C25K+ - all fine. Then was struck with sharp lower back pain and haven’t run since. I’m nearly 72 - is that something to do with it? I thought I needed to increase core strength and started Pilates but stopped cos it felt worse. Now I concentrate on rest and walking every day - but I’m recovering so slowly I can’t bear it! I so miss running! When is it ok to start again? (My back still aches a bit) or any other advice much appreciated. Thank you!

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

Pilates is great for strengthening your back, but maybe wait until this current injury is healed. I get occasional bouts, and always have done, so might just be bad luck rather than age. In my case is a disc that sometimes slips a little. Maybe a chiropractor can help you. Have you seen your GP? (Ha, easier said than done!)

I now have a few stretches that I know will help me. But I'd be reluctant to suggest them, without knowing what's wrong in your case. Hope you get it sorted soon, I know how you feel about not being able to run 🙁

[Latecomer in reply to grumpyoldgirl]

Thanks Grumpy! It helps to know i’m not alone with this. Yes - I sort of discount my GP or the NHS having heard other stories of attempts to get help with back pain!

[SpanishShuffle Graduate]

I use McKenzie Back First aid on and off for years and have found it very good.

Just Google it and see what you think. ☺

[Latecomer in reply to SpanishShuffle]

Thanks Spanish - i’ll take a look at that.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

A visit to a physio might be worthwhile, just to get reliable advice.

[Latecomer in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I do agree, but don’t know how to see a physio without waiting for months on the NHS. I should try though. Is there anywhere else I can find a physio? Thanks for getting back to me!

[Deals1 Graduate in reply to Latecomer]

Hi. Hope u get it sorted. physio... Do u know anyone who could maybe recommend one? Or Google? Good luck

[Granspeed Graduate]

I used to think chiropractics was all smoke and mirrors, but an accidental introduction to one sympathetic to athletic problems has completely proved me wrong. Well worth a try if the rest cure isn’t enough on its own.

[Latecomer]

Hi Granspeed - yes i’m sceptical about chiropractors too - but maybe I will ask around for personal recommendations. Thanks for your reply!

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

You can pay privately for physio, sports physios can be good, if you Google them local to you they may have recommendations. Same with chiropractors, but it costs! In the meantime, I've just spent 5 minutes lying on my back, with my calves and feet up on the coffee table. Helps my spine drop back into place, no stretching required for that one.

[Latecomer in reply to grumpyoldgirl]

Dear Grumpy, I now have that picture in my head! Thanks for the tip - just off out now for my daily morning walk while trying to stand up straight! We’re on a journey...

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate in reply to Latecomer]

We are that, enjoy your walk, don't forget your ibuprofen 🙃

[Elfe5 Graduate]

Hi Lc, I had a bit of back bother in the summer, paid for a private Physio appt, was given a couple of exercises which did the trick & have been fine since. Well worth the cost. 😄

[Latecomer in reply to Elfe5]

Hi Elfe, that sounds good! How did you find your physio? Just through googling? I might follow your example 🙂

[Elfe5 Graduate in reply to Latecomer]

It was someone I already knew - & had heard other people speak well of. If you don’t find someone by personal recommendations, then google & check ratings given by clients. Don’t be put off by the occasional negative one - some people like to grumble & some expect miracle cures! 😃

[Latecomer]

Thanks Elfe - i’m determined to give it a go, and will be cautious about ratings too x