Leg/calf pain?

[GreenDogma13]

I've been doing CT5K for a while now. Had some set backs but I'm finally at week 6, about to head into run three. But I'm still having a lot of leg muscle pain. I have issues with my joint and legs anyway. Everything is a bit to tight, and the joints are all slightly twisted (one set back was a repeated partial knee dislocation) but I've been doing physio rehab and contained my running for months.

So why am I still having so much pain in my calfs? It is like they want to cramp immediately. And stay super tight throughout the run.

I know my fitness is improving because my recovery time is much better. But this pain is making running miserable some days.

Any thoughts, or advice? Id really appreciate it. I don't want to give up this journey that I've worked so hard for.

[StartersPistol Graduate]

I had similar issues , but then bought better trainers .I paid £150 for mine, alot but worth every penny, now last week completed the c25k programme.

[Yesletsgo Administrator]

The best thing to do is to go and see your GP. If you've already seen a physio and the issue is persisting you need further investigation.

There is no substitute for personal and expert medical intervention. We can suggest all sorts of things but we, although well meaning, aren't qualified.

It may be something as simple as needing new shoes and I hope it is, but you owe it to yourself and your fitness to get a proper evaluation and answer.

[Rashyb Graduate]

Maybe try running a bit at slower phase 🤔 and have longer gap in between like 2 days for recovering 🤔

[Bluechoc]

I'd get checked out at your GP to rule out any underlying issues

[Cmoi Graduate]

Are you hydrating enough? Wearing suitable shoes? Warming up and cooling down appropriately? Taking rest days? Running at a pace that's comfortable for you?

If the answer to all of those is yes, or if you're experiencing real pain rather than just discomfort, imo the physio you've already seen is best placed to advise you.

[GreenDogma13]

Thank you everyone for the advice. I'll definitely get in touch with the physio again but I have a feeling that some of the suggestions about trainers might be a factor - I bought a pair of kids sketchers (yay for small feet, no VAT on shoes haha) - so I'm going to try and invest in some decent shoes. but I'll definitely get my legs checked just to be sure.

Thank you for the support and suggestions it's much appreciated ❤️

[Over60sRunner Graduate in reply to GreenDogma13]

Have you ever had your gait analysed? It was a game changer for me.

I had no idea that I pronated so badly, and I had the most horrible tight, painful, calves which almost stopped me running at all by week five. The correct trainers made a massive difference to me and I went on to complete c25k with virtually no more problems at all.

However, I would agree with others that it would be a good idea to have this checked out by a health professional or physio.

[Cmoi Graduate in reply to GreenDogma13]

My personal view: even if you're very small and light, as a grown woman with previous joint and leg issues children's Skechers are highly unlikely to provide you with the right support for running.

In your situation I'd check back with the physio, and get advice from a specialist independent running shop about suitable shoes.

You might find these two FAQ posts interesting: healthunlocked.com/couchto5... and healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

Having suggested those posts, I disagree with the idea in the second of those FAQs that video gait analysis is essential and that no viewer can make suitable recommendations by eye. My personal experience is otherwise.

[Yesletsgo Administrator]

When you see the physio take your running shoes with you. They can give the physio a lot of information.There really is a difference between proper running shoes and normal trainers. Running shoes give you a sort of bounce when your feet hit the floor whereas trainers seem to absorb the impact (not a very good explanation but you get the idea?)

This means you're not working quite as hard with every step. Added to all the additional support the whole running process is easier. It's not just hype, I can barely run for a couple of minutes in trainers, but in running shoes.... it's as far as my mood takes me.

Hope you sort yourself out 😁