I have pain when I run, what should I do?
That is a question I get frequently. The answer I usually give is, “depends.” Most of the time there is a reason that someone is experiencing pain when they run, but should they stop running? First and foremost, pain is a signal alerting you to a problem or potential problem. One should treat it as a puzzle vs an obstacle. There are a variety of reasons and fixes, some simple, some more complex. Could be the camber (tilt) of the road or beach depending on the surface you run on. Could be too much too fast too soon if you have started a training/running program. Maybe a lack of cross training. Could be a joint restriction somewhere or muscle imbalance. If you are a new runner, could be just getting used to running but there may be a running form issue. Therefore, here are my tips for “When to Seek Professional Help For Running-Related Aches and Pains”:
Symptoms on one side of the body only means there is an imbalance in the system, something is off from one side of the body vs the other. A good biomechanical examination could potentially find that imbalance.
Pain in the groin of front of the hip during running could be related to an issue within your hip joint, including a potential for a stress fracture. I do not recommend running until the source of that pain is fully identified.
Symptoms that occur at the beginning of the run and then get worse as you keep running. Again, not a good sign. If the pain is in your shin or foot, you need to get screened for potential stress fracture.
Symptoms that persist after you run usually means something more muscular in nature or tendonitis, managed with rest and ice and modification of miles.
Pain lasting longer than two weeks or at night is too long to go unchecked by a health professional familiar with running injuries/symptoms.
Pain associated with numbness, tingling and pins and needles, coldness — these could be nerve or vascular in nature. Sometimes, shoes can contribute to this but again, should not be ignored.
Regarding shoes, lots of variety there and again the recommendation is for a good biomechanical assessment. Also, a treadmill running video analysis can be helpful to determine if your running style is a contributing factor or sometimes, we can pick up on muscle imbalances from one side or the other.
Running is a very popular and an easy and inexpensive way to maintain our fitness level. Some need it for stress relief, others like to participate in races from 5Ks to marathons. Regardless, running with pain is generally not recommended for the reasons mentioned above. If you are having pain with running, get it checked out with an expert who can work with you to get you back on the road without symptoms.
Dr. Chris Kopp PT, DPT is the owner of Premier Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation of Jacksonville, Inc. and can be reached at info@premierptjax.com, or go to www.premierptjax.com for more information.
