Lower back pain: Would really like some advice... - Couch to 5K

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Lower back pain

Latecomer profile image
16 Replies

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!

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Latecomer profile image
Latecomer
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16 Replies
grumpyoldgirl profile image
grumpyoldgirlGraduate

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 profile image
Latecomer in reply togrumpyoldgirl

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 profile image
SpanishShuffleGraduate

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 profile image
Latecomer in reply toSpanishShuffle

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

IannodaTruffe profile image
IannodaTruffeMentor

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

Latecomer profile image
Latecomer in reply toIannodaTruffe

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 profile image
Deals1Graduate in reply toLatecomer

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

Granspeed profile image
GranspeedGraduate

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 profile image
Latecomer

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

grumpyoldgirl profile image
grumpyoldgirlGraduate

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 profile image
Latecomer in reply togrumpyoldgirl

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 profile image
grumpyoldgirlGraduate in reply toLatecomer

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

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate

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 profile image
Latecomer in reply toElfe5

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

Elfe5 profile image
Elfe5Graduate in reply toLatecomer

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 profile image
Latecomer

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

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