back ache!

[runforestrun]

does anyone know if you can get back ache from running? I have a pain (only when I touch it) on my spine, its not too painful just annoying. could this be caused by running as I don't remeber having it before I started C25K? I am on W5 at the moment.

[TJFlute]

You can get any sort of ache from running..back, arm, tummy, leg, hip etc etc because it is a high impact exercise.So it might well be from the running, although it's strange that you only feel it when touching the spine, and not a general aching back thoughout the day. (??)

I recommend concentrating on stretches before the runs (but after the warm up) and after running(after cool down) including the back. Drink plenty of water (to keep the spine hydrated and therefore flexible)

Are you running soon after waking up? Apparently this may not be a good idea for the spine, I have heard from 'experts'

Theresa

[Katlikegirl Graduate]

There is a great article in the Guardian Life and Style section about how to avoid running injuries. One of the recommendations is to work on your core muscles to improve the strength of your back, hips and abdomen. We don't realise it but a lot of the power we use when running comes from these muscle groups so working up the strength here can both reduce your chance of injury and make you a stronger runner. Exercises they suggest include sit-ups and holding plank position.

All the best!

[AnnaJ Graduate]

firstly, you have my sympathy, i am still "off sick" from running due to back pain. mine is due to a pulled glute muscle though (ouch) however 2 things to offer, the man in our running shop said that when we get dehydrated, the first thing we feel after headache is back pain cos the body takes water from the spinal cord so like it says above, keep drinking, you might be someone that needs the water out with them so you can keep sipping at it. also i ahve discoverd the joys of TUI NA,(pronouced twee na) therapy. i have hardly been able to walk with my glute pain and was sick of the waiting around to see the NHS physio after 2 weeks of almost getting depressed, i went for an appointment yesterday. it is unbelievable. the clinic i attended also treats our olympic sprinters. they treat loads of things but i saw soemone who specialised in sports massage. still a little tender where they massaged so deeply but am walking without my limp, they check your leg length and stabilise your hips too. can highly reccommend them and they also demonstrate exercises to help prevent further injury, see if there is one near you. you can you tube it and see some treatments taking place. its the best thirty quid i ever spent!! good luck