Why do you get lower back pain when you run?

Answer 1

There are many possible reasons why this could be... The human body is made up of many tissue or components. When we are talking about the locomotor system, we are talking about bones, muscles, ligaments (connect bone to bone), tendons (connect a muscle to a bone), cartilage (the lining over joint surfaces, joint capsules (connective tissue around joints), fascia (lining around different muscles) and to a lesser degree the nerves that course around many of these tissues. If any one or combination of tissue is either injured or not working properly pain may be generated. Generally speaking a younger person will develop Back pain from muscle and/or joint dysfunction. Joints that move improperly or too much and muscles that are either weak, too short, or too long can cause back pain. Proper balance of muscle strength and joint motion are critical. In older people the prior reasons are in play but additionally, we see more symptoms associated with the joint surfaces creating pain when the cartilage thins; this is called osteoarthritis. A few tips to consider. 1. Seek the advice of a Doctor of Chiropractic or Physical Therapist. These professionals should be able to point to the possible source of the problem. 2. Many people have short hip flexor muscles due to careers and life where we SIT all the time (typing on computers like me). Stretching this muscle can make a world of difference. Hold the stretch for 45 seconds. 3. Consider speed walking to reduce the pounding on the joints. I understand you will get the same calorie burn. Still having problems... ride a bike! 4. If you run ALOT, your problem may be due to tissue fatigue (muscles or fascia or tendons or ligaments) Alter your training routine and seek professional help. 5. Join a running club and have your running gait evaluated by a pro. 6. Get your feet checked. Your feet may work just adequately with walking around in sedentary life but be pushed to the max with running. Orthotics may needed. AND, for goodness sake, don't cheap out on shoes. Get fit by a pro! 7. Put an ice pack on your lower back for 20 minutes after every run. 8. Pre-medicating with pain killers is a lousy way to deal with your problem. Hope this gets the problem solved.