back/buttock?

[bugsi]

Hi,

I have been suffering from what i first thought was lower back pain, however it seems to be my lower back and buttock area. At first i thought it was sciatica type pain as the pain appeared on putting weight on my foot. It seemed to start after a run of about 8 miles which was 10 days ago now. It seemed to feel a little better just the odd pain when i bend down and straighten back up like a spasm. I have had occassional numb like feeling in my foot.

After resting it for 10 days i decided to go for a run today, only managed a mile and realised running through the pain wasn't a good idea. I could feel my running style being affected and didn't want to risk being put back any more than i have. Also when i was running beside the back and buttock pain the back of my thigh down to behind the knee felt tight.

I have done a bit of reading and am wondering if this sounds like piriformis pain? If so will it go on its own and is there anything i can do to get rid of it quicker?

Thanks for any advice !!!

[mattw]

Watch this video that talks about back pain with running from Peak Running Performance. It will help explain what the problem is and give you tools to correct it. Make sure to watch all 3 parts and then do the work! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KWUHTEJOyKs

[Heidi]

Hi
It could be piriformis syndrome, although this would not cause pain in your lower back, only your buttock/hip and downwards.
If you are getting lower back pain, I would always recommend seeking professional help, just to rule out any disc/nerve related problems in this area.
Once you have had this checked and hopefully cleared, tried to work out what may have contributed to your injury...i.e. any changes in training/footwear/increased mileage/extra hills etc etc.
Rest and stretch these muscles, correct any problems and work on strengthening the outer hip and buttock muscles.
http://www.sportsinjuryclinic.net/cybertherapist/stretching/allstretches.php