tight quads

i went to the physio a while ago compalaining of lower back pain. he diagnosed this as tight quads pulling down on my lower back muscles. he prescriped stretching both quads 3 X 30 secs 3 time daily which i did and the lower back pain has gone

now however im getting this strange stiffness in my quads when i run. its not like a normal stiffness with associated pain and lactic acid sensation. its feels more like my quads are frozen like concrete. it usually starts early in the run just above the knees and then spreads to entire quad and eventually gets to the point where my legs just wont do anything. there is no pain just a feeling of upper legs freezing up and refusing to move. same sensation in both quads

i thought i may have overstretched so took over 3 weeks off without any activity and no stretching. when i ran again the stiffness came back just as bad as ever

ive been running steadily for last 7-8 years and do about 20-25km once a week

Hi Daniel,

To me this sounds like a more systemic problem and something you should see your doctor about. I'm guessing the physio checked your back and would have done some sort of mobilisation on your spine if it was stiff. As you say, it's not the 'normal pain' associated with running and you should know with the amount you do. I would see your doctor about a potential circulatory issue.

Or, just go for a massage on your quads and see if this helps!

I'm sure someone on here will be able to help you more than I can.

All the best,

Ben