This is a late post because it’s been a long day. There’s an update at the end, so read to the end to see how it all turned out. 🙂

 Running is a blessing. Walking is a blessing. Any movement whatsoever is a blessing. We should all be thankful if we are healthy and able to run. I’ve always said that I run because I can. Well that came to a screeching halt on Monday when I woke up with debilitating back pain. What does a runner do when they can’t run? Wallow in self pity. Worry. Cry. Formulate an action plan.

When a runner can’t run, it’s no fun.

Let me first explain what’s happening then I’ll tell you how this runner is dealing with it. I’m pretty sure it all started on Saturday when I washed my two German Shepherds. My back usually hurts a little after bending over washing my dogs but this time I was a little extra sore. I went on to my granddaughters soccer game (she scored a goal!) and had twinges of pain when getting up from sitting but nothing a good nights sleep and some ice wouldn’t fix…or so I thought.

The pain got progressively worse on Sunday even after Advil and sitting in the hot tub. By the evening I was having trouble walking. No worries, I would be better in the morning. Well morning came and I ended up on my knees with severe spasms when I attempted to make my bed. I was scheduled to work at the college but there was no way, fortunately I was able to get someone to cover for me. I rarely call out sick so this was just adding to an already stressful situation. 

My initial thoughts…

• How am I going to run? 
• What if I can’t run?
• How’s is this going to impact my training for Boston?
• What if I can’t run Boston?
• I don’t want to disappoint anyone.

This was all in the first 10 minutes of getting out of bed. Things only got worse throughout the day with spasms, frustration and tears. Tears from pain and self pity. 

My action plan…

• Ice, Advil and rest. 

By 10 am I was at my wits end. I mean seriously, it had been 4 hours and I wasn’t feeling even a little bit better. Wtf? This is not who I am. I need to feel better. (A bit irrational but what can I say) A friend suggested a chiropractor and I was feeling desperate (I don’t believe in chiropractors as a rule because I’ve seen too many patients after visiting one) so I called my sisters chiropractor and added to my plan.

• Visit a chiropractor. 

I didn’t feel any better after the visit but did have some relief when he used the Rapid Tension Relief (RTR)gun. He also  gave me some peace of mind by explaining the cause of the pain. I have a strained L5 ligament. It’s nothing permanent, YAY! His recommendation: yoga (child’s pose and cobra pose) and ice. Also use my abs (what abs? I have quads. Ugh) and move my legs (similar to baby butterflies) to activate muscles when I want to get up or change position. Recheck on Thursday.

• Yoga

I know how important yoga is for runners. I do. Do I practice yoga like I should? No. Will I now? Yes. Will I forget this pain in a few weeks then slack off with yoga? Maybe, but I’m going to try to treat my body better. 

I did a child’s pose (felt okay) then attempted cobra but ended up face down on my mat unable to move. It took me 10 mins to get up off the floor. I thought my daughter was the only one home and didn’t want to call her for help because no one needs to see their mother like that. Turns out my husband sent her to the store and he was home. Eye roll. 

Day 2…when will the pain end?

In the recliner with ice and heat as the plan continues…

• Massage

That RTR gun really felt good so I’m hoping a massage will loosen those tight muscles that keep spasming. Idk. I guess I’ll find out. Waiting on my husband to take me because I’m afraid to drive…not sure I even can.

• Essential oils

Did I say I’m willing to try anything? I read eucalyptus oil can help ease muscle pain, tension and swelling. Any thoughts on that?

My sister texted me yesterday and said to avoid inflammatory foods and drink celery juice. Honestly I think I’m way past that. Maybe as a maintenance plan but not an immediate relief plan. Thanks though Sista!

My final thoughts…

• Running doesn’t define who I am. Well actually it does, but I’m also a mom, wife, meemaw and nurse.
• This shall pass. It better! And soon!
• Yoga needs to be a regular part of my life.

                                                        I’m linking with Kim and Zenaida for Tuesdays Topics. 

Have you ever had back pain that kept you from running?

Do you try alternative medicine for injuries?

Update: I broke down and went to the ER. I couldn’t handle the spasms any longer. I truly have never had such bad pain before (and I have 2 kids).  I was given and shot of Toradol, Tylenol and Valuim. I was able to walk out of the ER 2 1/2 hours later and shower when I got home. I feel so  much better. I’m hoping I’ll feel normal again tomorrow. Fingers crossed. 🙂

Thanks for reading.

Run a few miles for me this week.

                    Denise