Anybody gets neck pain after running?

[Verovero]

I have been running twice a week or so for over 5 years and I love the freedom and the stress relief feeling you get during and after running. But I have suffered from neck pains , especially the day after running. I have tried everything: yoga, pilates, physio, massages, chiropractor, ice and tablets. Anything I should do ? Please help as I am fed up with these neck pains 😔

[Northlondongirl Graduate]

Hi Verovero , could it be due to your posture when running? Or do you have anything weighing you down such as a phone in your pocket? I was getting neck pain when running and could not work out why. I thought it was due to my posture and tried to keep my shoulder down and relax while running but nothing worked. After a few weeks I bought a running belt to keep my phone and keys in and the pain stopped. I then realised that the pain was due to the weight of my phone and keys! I hope your issue is also something as simple to fix 😉

[HappyNoodle Graduate]

I used to hunch my shoulders and had the same problem and now I still have to consciously drop them into a natural position. This has worked for me. I also tend to use my neck when doing crunches and other exercises although I am trying to learn not to. I hope you fit your problem

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Are you carrying anything in your hands?

This can lead to tensions and asymmetries.

If that is not the case just try to relax all your upper body. Do not clench hands keep them loose. The same with shoulders, swinging loosely, head up and shoulders back, but not tense.

[grumpyoldgirl Graduate]

I have to run a few posture checks when I'm running. Before I start, stand with feet shoulder width apart. Head straight, and sitting directly over spinal column. (I have a tendency to stick my chin forward so I consciously retract it before I start.) I find it easier if I stand on tiptoes for a count of three then lower back down onto heels. Shoulder blades relaxed, back and down. Core muscles tightened. Then once I'm running, I do a quick check of head, shoulders, core every few minutes. Do you get neck ache after yoga, sit-ups etc? I used to because I led with my head. The cure for me was lots of abs strengthening exercises, starting gently until my abs were strong enough to cope with sit-ups without me using my head.

Sorry, that was a bit long!

[Verovero Graduate]

Thanks very much for the advice guys. Yes I was told that my pains are to do with my posture. I used to run on my heels so I am now careful to run more on my tiptoes. I dont carry anything. I shall take this advice on board and hope for the best ! Cheers again 🏃‍♀️👟