How Runners Can Prevent Lower Back Pain

May 28, 2013

Running is a popular fitness choice for many people, but it can cause a variety of injuries including lower back pain. Running puts repetitive stress at a high level onto the back, and people with lower back problems need to take preventative measures in order to reduce potential strain on this area. In general, by following a few essential tips, runners can prevent lower back pain.

  • Wear supportive and comfortable shoes
  • Practice cross training, as this will help you to avoid an overuse symptom
  • Thoroughly warm up your muscles before you begin a run
  • Stretch out your hamstring muscles two times a day in order to minimize potential stress that may occur across the lower back
  • Practice strength training and muscle toning, especially when it comes to the back’s core muscles

Choose a forgiving surface for running like a rubber track.Take precautions to avoid running on certain surfaces like cement and concrete

If a patient is experiencing back pain, they should take note of symptoms that may be exacerbated by one activity in particular. For example, if running is consistently bringing on lower back pain, it is recommended that an evaluation should be sought with a spinal specialist. Diagnostic imaging like an MRI or X-ray can help to determine the cause and source of the pain.

Muscle strains and sprains that are the result of running will typically be short-lived. They often respond well to at-home treatments like anti-inflammatory medication, and stretching. If the lower back pain is not responding to these types of treatment methods, an evaluation with a physician or College Park chiropractors may be necessary in order to see if a structural problem is the cause, such as spondylolisthesis, degenerative disc disease, or disc herniation. Regardless of the treatment method, the goal of your College Park chiropractor is to get the runner back to running with limited or no pain as soon as possible.

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