How to Use Running to Treat Low Back Pain
Ignore the providers and influencers that tell you it’s dangerous
There are many ways to treat chronic low back pain.
Over my 10 years as a physical therapist, I have focused on low back pain more than any other diagnosis. The reason is simple: it’s one of the most common causes of pain.
Whether you seek information from Google, ChatGPT, social media influencers, or actual healthcare providers, you will be bombarded with a variety of treatments for low back pain.
Some will claim the key is improving your core strength while others will focus on “aligning your spine.” You will find influencers and providers that completely ignore muscle and joints, claiming diet is the key to treating and preventing low back pain.
But here’s the kicker — there is no one-size-fits-all approach. And it’s usually a multipronged approach. In the end, the goal is to gradually increase your activity until you can do all the activities you wish without experiencing pain or fearing potential pain.
That can be freeing and distressing. How do you know you are choosing the right approach?
Exercise recommendations online and from healthcare providers will range from gentle stretching to heavy deadlifts. You…
