Back Pain

mrslantu2020
mrslantu2020 Posts: 71 Member
edited September 20 in Fitness and Exercise
I added running to my exercise routine last week [couch to 5K]. This week, I am having very bad lower back pain. Could this be on account of running? Or the shoes I have?

Replies

  • Nich0le
    Nich0le Posts: 2,906 Member
    It could be from either but running involves more of your core than people think. Try to NOT let your arms cross in front of you while running, focus on keeping them at your side, parallel to your feet. Arms swinging in front of your body will actually make your back and hips move which can be the cause of your back pain.

    Think of your arms while running needed to stay in the position of sitting in a chair with arms. As an example, stand still and keep your arms to your sides and move them back and forth, there will be little movement, but if you start to cross over in front of your body you will notice that your hips and back sway.

    :wink:
  • disneyfetishboy
    disneyfetishboy Posts: 65 Member
    Running shoes and their link to back pain and foot injuries has been a major topic of debate in the sporting world lately. You can read some of the research here: http://www.barefootrunning.fas.harvard.edu/

    In short, the research indicates that the "better" (more cushioned, more engineered) running shoes are reinforcing running techniques (heel strikes) that lead to unnecessary stresses on our legs and back. I had chronic foot problems as a youngster (running cross country and track), but recently switched to a minimalist shoe with great results.
  • ekrueger002
    ekrueger002 Posts: 15
    Sorry to hear about the back pain. ouch.

    My 2 cents......stop running.

    It cannot be disputed that running is a great calorie burning aerobic exercise however it is harsh on the feet, knees, back.

    Try cycling or simply walking. Both will burn calories and strengthen your core.

    I have had two lower back surgeries. Common theme from all my doctors (orthopedic, sports medicine, neurosurgeon) DO NOT RUN for cardio. Cycle (if proper form), Walk or Elliptical machine.

    No offense to the "marathoners" out there :-) I am an ex runner.
  • sblim
    sblim Posts: 99
    I can tell you that I've hurt my back so bad from running that I couldn't leave my house for a few days because of the pain. It is a very stressful activity on the body especially if you are overweight and trying to exert too much, run too far, etc. My advice to you would be to try and walk the parts you are supposed to run at least until your back heals and/or you lose some extra weight.

    I am assuming by running you mean jogging. If you are doing a couch to 5k, you might try jogging very slowly like 12-13 minute mile pace.
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