inside leg pain - soleus in spasm

[fleur]

I really hope someone can offer me some advice, as I am feeling quite desperate and as though I am somehow not meant to run...ever

I have been running a few times a week for 1 1/2 years and until 4 months ago, I had never had any signs of injuries. However, since July I have had an on-going problem with my soleus, whenever I run it goes into spasm and it gets increasingly painful about 1/3 of the way down the inside of my leg. I have been going to an NHS physio (not sport specialist) for about 3 months. Initially the right leg was the problem, but after the treatment worked for this leg, the left leg has been a problem for the last 2 months and shows no sign of getting better.

I have had massage, I perform all the right stretches for at least 30 seconds (not too fast or hard) several times a day and I have been swimming, cycling & strength training without causing any pain.

My physio suggested my arches were a little bit low (although my foot print is normal), however, her advice has been misleading and seems to change from the right foot being a bit worse when my right leg was a problem, to now my left foot being a bit worse now that my left leg is the problem - I see no change. I therefore have my doubts about this advice - especially as I have just bought a new pair of trainers and was told I am a neutral runner and should not need to opt for heavy duty arch support.

After 3 weeks of no running, I went out for 10 mins last night and felt the same old problem come on progressively as I ran. I really do not know what to try now and have lost faith in the advice I am receiving from my physio. If anyone has any ideas I would be very grateful to hear from you. Thanks for reading my lenghty moan!

[Heidi]

Hi Fleur,

If you are not happy with your treatment from your current physio then I would definately look for another, or maybe a sports therapist or rehabilitator who does specialise in sports injuries.

If therapeutic treatment (massage, stretching etc) isn't working, then there must be something more too it. You possibly have some imbalances somewhere along the line. Common ones in women are weak hip abductors. I suffer with this myself which has hampered my running. Other issues could be tight hamstrings or ITB and lateral knee structures. It can all play a part.

I would get a thorough assessment from someonw who specialises in this sort of thing. They may continue therapeutic treatment, but should also give you a rehab program based on what they find.

Good luck!!

[fleur]

Thanks for your advice and time, I really appreciate your thoughts.