- Stop running until your back feels at least 70% better, then make sure you follow the correct protocol for introducing running again (video).
- Visiting a qualified osteopath or sports injury specialist is a good idea for this condition.
- Perform the ‘IMPORTANT’ video advice below.
- Perform the ‘ESSENTIAL CHECKS’ videos below, which assess if you need orthotics, how stable your hip muscles are (if they are not, then click here), if there is a difference in your leg lengths, whether you need new shoes, if your core stability is strong enough (if it isn’t, then click here).
- Ensure you check you are running with good form (click here)
- Before following the rehabilitation advice, read our treatment precautions.
- Also, check our Low back warning signs page.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen help reduce any pain and inflammation.
- Acupuncture can be helpful.
- Apply ice 3-4 times per day for the first few days, or some people find contrast hydrotherapy at this stage more effective (see videos below).
- For all low back problems, if things are not starting to improve within 10 days, it is a good idea to see an osteopath or your physician for treatment.
- When things start to settle, you can then go on to stage 2 of rehabilitation.
Acute Facet Joint Dysfunction Stage 1
It is likely the back pain you are suffering from is due to you having a Acute Facet Joint Dysfunction.
The Facet joints are found on the back of the spinal column between the vertebra. They can be irritated and become inflamed from running, giving rise to back pain running.
Below you will find advice as to how to deal with this injury – by becoming a member, you can
also access all our video advice.
Remember to have this confirmed by your sports doctor, or sports therapist.
You can diagnose other running injury’s here.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4 - current step
Follow the information and Video advice below
Previous step
Important Essential checks
- How to return to running
- Applying ice to an area
- Contrast hydrotherapy
- The application of heat
- Pelvic nutation/Counternutation rock
- Hip looseners
- Back looseners
- Self massage - low back
- Pressure point procedure
- Inner Buttock Stretch
- Front of hip stretch
- Hip joint stretch
- Low back flexion stretch lying
- Low back flexion stretch sitting
- Cat Stretch
Acute Facet Joint Dysfunction Stage 1
Attention!
An acute facet joint dysfunction often requires treatment with an osteopath or sports injury specialist to correct the problem and ensure it does not return again.
