Running puts, a high level of repetitive stress on the back, and for those with lower back problems it is particularly important to take measures to reduce the strain on the lower back.
In general, the following tips are advisable for runners, especially for those who are susceptible to low back pain or leg pain/sciatica:
- Do a thorough warm-up before beginning a run
- Stretch the hamstrings (the large muscles in the back of the thigh) twice daily to minimize stress across the lower back
- Muscle toning and strength training are also important, particularly with the core muscles of the back
- Cross-training is useful, so as not to get into an overuse syndrome
- Wear comfortable, supportive shoes
- Try to run on a forgiving surface if possible, such as a rubber track, and try to avoid running on cement
Back pain patients must take note of any back symptoms that perhaps are being exacerbated by a particular activity. If running consistently brings on back pain or leg pain symptoms, an evaluation with a spine specialist, including X-rays and perhaps an MRI, can be useful to determine the source of that pain.
Again, muscular sprains and strains tend to be short-lived and respond well to self-care measures, such as heat, stretching, and anti-inflammatory medication (e.g., Motrin or Advil). If the pain does not respond to these measures, a more structural problem may require medical treatment.
More structural problems such as disc herniations, degenerative disc disease, and spondylolisthesis may require a more thorough evaluation and treatment by a spine specialist.
- When the symptoms of the condition are not too severe, an integrated treatment approach, such as a combination of physical therapy, pain medications, injections, and bracing, is often effective in managing the pain.
- When there is a more significant neurological impingement (often indicated by severe or progressive leg pain, sciatica leg weakness and numbness, or foot drop) or more severe symptoms, spinal surgery may become advisable.
With all of the treatment approaches, the goal is to get the runner back to a healthy state where he or she can continue to enjoy exercise with minimal or no pain.
Precision Pain Care and Rehabilitation has two convenient locations in Richmond Hill – Queens, and New Hyde Park – Long Island. Call the Queens office at (718) 215-1888 or (516) 419-4480 for the Long Island office to arrange an appointment with our Interventional Pain Management Specialists, Dr. Jeffrey Chacko or Dr. Sonny Ahluwalia.
