Loving it but ...

[JCarter60]

Hi there I’m on week 5 just completed r2 and have developed a really annoying stiffness/pain in my left lower leg, this improves after several days of non running then starts up again after a run! It makes it painful to walk and am now developing a slight limp until the stiffness subsides - which I know is not a good thing. I do stretches but wonder if anyone can offer some suggestions as, surprisingly, I’m enjoying the running and aim to join my husband in park run once I graduate - just need to sort out this niggling problem ! Thanks

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Do you stretch immediately after every run? By doing this you pull out any contractions in the muscles, avoiding carrying them into the next run. It also improves recovery by improving blood flow. In my view this is far more important than stretching pre run, which incidentally should be dynamic, rather than the static stretches done post run. Static stretching pre run has been linked to possible injury, so is best avoided.

There are links in the guide to the plan healthunlocked.com/couchto5... to both types.

You may have an asymmetry in your musculoskeletal system which is causing this and if it persists then consulting a physio would be wise.

Are you wearing appropriately supportive running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop? Proper shoes can make a difference.

[JCarter60 in reply to IannodaTruffe]

Hi thanks for your advice, I do stretch post run which definitely helps. I do have asymmetry as advised by my chiropractor. I’m happy with my running shoes but haven’t had any form of gait analysis so I might look into this. I’m due back at the chiro on Tuesday so will see what she says too.

[IannodaTruffe Mentor in reply to JCarter60]

Asymmetries, which are extremely common, need to be balanced out for running, or loads will put strain unevenly on your body, causing pain, strains or injuries, so I would have a good chat with your chiropractor to see if it can be remedied, as it is a likely cause of your issue.