How long does back pain last from running?

Answered by Jeremy Urbaniak

Back pain from running can vary in duration depending on the severity of the injury and your adherence to proper treatment and rehabilitation. It is important to remember that every individual is different, and the healing process may vary from person to person. However, I can provide you with a general timeline of how long back pain from running may last.

In mild cases, where the pain is not severe and there are no underlying structural issues, back pain from running can resolve in as quickly as two weeks with proper treatment and rest. This typically involves avoiding activities that aggravate the pain, such as running or high-impact exercises, and focusing on gentle stretching and strengthening exercises for the back muscles.

However, if the pain is more severe or there is an underlying structural issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, the recovery time may be longer. In these cases, it can take anywhere from 4-6 weeks or even longer for the pain to subside. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physical therapist or orthopedic specialist, to determine the underlying cause of the pain and develop an appropriate treatment plan.

During the recovery period, it is crucial to follow the prescribed rehabilitation program consistently. This may include a combination of stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises to improve the strength and flexibility of the back muscles and promote proper alignment and posture. It is also important to gradually reintroduce running and other activities, following the guidance of your healthcare professional, to ensure a safe return to full function.

In my personal experience, I have dealt with back pain from running in the past. I followed a comprehensive rehabilitation program that included exercises targeting the core and back muscles, as well as rest and modification of my running routine. It took about four weeks for the pain to completely subside, but I continued with my rehabilitation until I was able to perform all exercises and resume running normally. It is crucial to listen to your body and not rush the recovery process to avoid any setbacks.

To summarize, back pain from running can last anywhere from two weeks to several weeks or longer, depending on the severity of the injury and adherence to proper treatment and rehabilitation. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional and follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program to ensure a safe and successful recovery.