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Arm Twinges while running

 Ok...clearly not a show stopper but when I run hard (which for me is 9 - 10 min miles) I get what feels like mild electric shocks in my biceps and my right hand feels numb.  Any thoughts??

Comments

  • What part of the hand feels numb? Whole hand? Thumb side? Pinky finger side?

    It sounds like a nerve compression issue which covers a lot of ground. Could be in your neck (herniated disk), shoulder (thoracic outlet), or more distally (carpal tunnel). The position you are holding your neck and arms in to run is likely gradually causing some compression on the nerve that isn't there when you are relaxed. Depending on which nerve is the culprit, some stretching and flexibility can help. If the problem persists then you should see your doctor and they may order an EMG/NCV test to trace out which nerve is being affected and where it is being compressed.
  • Since were on the subject of arm swinging, whats your guys thought on it. Ive heard everything from "you should run how your body wants to run fast" to "drive with the hands" to "dont waste energy swinging." Seems like the pros are all varying too. Right now, I have a pretty good swing, with my hands loose and by my waist. I focus more on the pushing back then going forward. Im worried that actively thinking about driving with my arms is going to waste energy over 26.2 miles. Any thoughts?

    GregV

  • Greg, 2 studies (I can't remember exactly when and where I read them, but in scientific journals) on whether swinging causes increase in energy requirements; one was on walking. the other on running.
    bottom line was actually that the natural swing of the person with was the most efficient way, with the least energy requirements. HOWEVER, ALL SUBJECTS SPENT LESS ENERGY WHEN THEY SWUNG AS OPPOSED TO NOT SWINGING BY AN AVERAG 20%
    in short - SWING!!!!
    -hb
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