Why do I have lower back pain when running?

This isn’t an easy question to answer, since there can be many different causes of low back pain. However, you may be encouraged to know that you aren’t the only one who experiences lower back pain when running. 

About 31 million Americans are experiencing lower back pain at any given time, including during their runs. A physical therapist can help you identify what’s causing your lower back pain, and they can also provide effective treatment that can get you running without pain again. 

These issues could be causing your lower back pain when running

Most experts agree that cardio, such as running, is an important part of staying fit and healthy. However, pain while running can make you less likely to enjoy this type of cardio workout. Some of the reasons you may be having lower back discomfort as you run include: 

• Underlying muscle weaknesses
• Herniated discs
• Sciatica
• Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
• Pelvic floor dysfunction
• Gait issues
• Tight muscles

How can a physical therapist help treat your lower back pain when running? 

Working with a physical therapist can go a long way toward reducing your lower back discomfort during a run. These specialists are human musculoskeletal system experts; they know how all the structures that allow you to run should be working. 

Physical therapists also know many techniques that can help reduce pain and improve mobility. Some of the therapy methods that could be used in your therapy plan include: 

• Manual therapy
• Balance and gait training
• Instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization (IASTM)
• Dry needling
• Stretching and strengthening exercises
• At-home care
• Virtual physical therapy

Find help for your lower back pain when running at Advent Physical Therapy

Tired of feeling lower back pain every time you go for a run? Our Advent Physical Therapy team is ready to help you find ways to relieve your pain. We offer free screenings that can reveal the source of your pain during cardio sessions. In addition, our physical therapists can build you a personalized therapy plan designed to decrease your pain and improve your ability to move normally. 

Contact our team today for more information about all the services we offer for lower back pain or to schedule your initial appointment.