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Back pain and running

 I jumped in week 6 of beginner half iron man training and got pretty bad lumbar back pain that took a week of no running at all to resolve.  I tried running again and the same thing happened.  I went to a physical therapist. He said I have spondylolisthesis with a linstability he can see when I bend forward.  My plan is to run slower (like 10 min miles instead of 8.5 min miles) and do my long run tonight.  What do you think?  

Comments

  • Give it a whirl and see what happens.

    I have back problems to and I see a chiropractor. Although, I don't have the problems you have. Before seeing him, I was in so much pain that running was impossible - it sidelined me for almost 2 years. After 2 months of regular chiropractic adjustments, I was a new man. Now I go as needed. Good luck!
  • VS, yikes! I agree on reducing the effort...but there appears to be some benefits to physical therapy...what is your long-term care plan for the area?
  • Thank you, Chris.  That gives me hope!

  • Thank you for the reply, Coach Patrick.  I will see my plan of care Wednesday. My initial evaluation was for my shoulder and it was good news- just bursitis and nothing torn- so I am good for the swim.  I did 3 mile jog at about 5-6 mph Friday, then 18 mile bike and 3 mile run Saturday at 5.4 mph (the ride was VERY windy) and today my back is just a little tight- not bad at all.  I am encouraged!

    My spine physical therapy evaluation is this week

    Thank you!

  • @Valerie:
    I am going through a Herniated Disc recovery right now, happened 3 days before LP.
    I have never focused on my core, and I am now with the help of a chiro focused on an emphasis of overall strengthening with a focus on the Core. Seems to help with all the issues.
  • Great news...let's keep the positivity flowing!
  • Thank you, Scott!  I think you are on the right track.  Any tips on keeping the core engaged during running?

    VS

  • So, I had my physical therapy evaluation regarding my back. The diagnosis was a right side foot drop which causes me to hitch my right hip and make the right side of my low back tight and hurt. The plan is ankle dorsiflexion exercises with a therapy band to strengthen those small muscles and some "bird dog" like exercises to strengthen my low back.
    I actually figured out that if I run in the middle of the road with the right leg on the downslope, it helps a lot!
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