Running is an activity that involves repetitive stress and impact, sometimes for a long duration. People who have an underlying lower back problem can find running or jogging makes their pain worse or leads to additional types of pain, such as sciatica (leg pain, weakness, or numbness).

When running or jogging leads to more or additional back pain, it is important to know when to seek treatment and what types of treatment to expect.

Common lower back injuries for runners

Lower back pain often comes on quickly, after bending or lifting the wrong way or perhaps after running too far before warming up.

Lower back pain comes in many different varieties, the most benign of which is muscular strains and pains. It is characterized by lower back muscle spasm and pain that is centralized in the lower back. This type of pain does not travel into the buttock or legs (radiating pain is known as sciatica, or radiculopathy).

Low back pain brought on by muscle strain is best treated by a variety of self-care techniques, and perhaps stopping running for a week or so as those symptoms resolve. Effective ways to relieve lower back pain caused by muscle strain usually include one or a combination of the following:

* A short period of rest (a few days or longer), if the pain is severe

* Gentle stretching

* Ice or cold packs, applied for 10 to 20 minutes at a time

Running and damaged discs in the back

A more problematic form of lower back pain for runners is low back pain related to structural problems in the lower back, such as herniated disc and degenerative disc disease.

The disc is the shock absorber of the lower back. When running or jogging, the repetitive impact on the spine puts stress on the disc. If one already has a damaged disc, the repetitive stress can lead to increasing symptoms. Runners who find that they have consistent and steady lower back pain after a workout should consider getting a thorough evaluation by a trained chiropractic. At Natural Spine Solutions, we are experienced at diagnosing and treating all types of low back pain.

Dr. Wayne Fichter is the lead doctor at Natural Spine Solutions, with more than 15 years of experience treating families. He also has been the lead doctor in handling serious neck and back problems through non-surgical spinal decompression. Call (208) 966-4425 for all of your spinal and wellness needs.