Lower back pain whilst playing sports

Hi there

im 24 and in the last few months i have developed a very annoying 'ache' in my lower back . This is fine during my normal day,but when i play football it usually can cause some discomfort. It is ok when i run, but sharp turns and especially jumping and landing tend to aggravate it the most. I get a similar ache also when i try to do more than say, 20 sit ups.

My parents have both suffered from 'worn disks' and i am worried that this could be the same for me?

Any advice would be appreciated.

Thanks
chris

Hi Chris,

Did you injure your back in any way?

I would say you need to get it checked out as to the problem to enable the best rehab programme.

I agree with Karen.

From what you describe, it may well be disc issues. Find someone who can help you with the way that you move - change your likely flexion pattern.

Hi

Thanks for your replies. Karen, i havent injured my back in any one incident, if thats what you mean, it has been gradual over the last year.

I have been told that it is my running action (apparanlty i run at a little slant!) that could cause this sort of injury.

Is this something that would get significantly worse if i continue to play sports?

I will go to see a physio asap anyway!

Thanks

Hi - do you run with a slant forward or backward?

It is more likely that you bend forwards in the back too much straining the back of the disc.

If you don't change your movement patterns, it will get worse. These are the types of patients who bend over in the shower one day to pick up the soap and then get stuck there.

Find a good physio who will NOT use machines on you - you need to retrain how you move - that is the primary problem...

yes definately a slant forwards, i have been putting a lot of effort in over the last few weeks to change my running pattern, plus i have been doing some strength training on my lower back. Hopefully this may solve my troubles!