Spinal osteoarthritis can cause a lot of pain and discomfort, and reduce a person’s ability to move and exercise. But that shouldn’t completely prohibit you from running. Here are a few tips to help you run if you suffer from osteoarthritis of the spine.

Stretch & Warm Up

Don’t jump right into a long jog. Be sure to stretch out your legs, knees, feet, and ankles before you take off running. Properly warming up your body will decrease your chance of sustaining a running injury.

Don’t Overdo It

Know your limits. While running and jogging are great for your health, you can overdo it. If you are hurting after a mile, it’s okay to stop and prevent a potential injury. Get a sense of your own limits, listen to your body, and don’t push yourself to the breaking point.

Proper Running Technique

Employ proper running technique while you exercise. Keep your arms at a 90 degree angle at the elbow, and try not to sway your upper body to the side while running.

Learn more about proper running technique in the video below:

Run on Even Terrain

Cut your risk of falling and injuring yourself by running in areas that lend themselves to running. That includes sidewalks, paved park trails, treadmills, gyms, etc. Avoid uneven ground like forest trails. You could easily trip on a jutting tree root or fallen branch. Avoid these risks by running on sure-footed terrain.

Seek Medical Help when Necessary

If you do injury your spine while running, don’t ignore the issue. Make an appointment with your physician to see if the injury necessitates treatment.

Spinal osteoarthritis is a condition that many people live with. It is the cause of innumerable cases of back pain. If you are an avid runner suffering from osteoarthritis, your condition need not prevent you from doing what you love. Use the tips in this article to ensure a safe running experience and avoid further injury.

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