UKC

Could anyone recommend a sports physio in Reading (where I live) or central London (where I work)?

Oh, and in case anyone has a similar experience and bright ideas: for months now I have had, well, how can I put this, a (mild) pain in the bum and down the backs of the thighs when running, and to some extent in between-times too. It is not stopping me doing things - I climb a couple of times a week, and run likewise. Don't usually run very far, but did a half marathon in April - so the pain is not stopping me doing things, but it's a nuisance.

My own armchair theory is that, having started climbing and running rather late in life (was 48, now 51) I have needed to develop muscles that i just haven't had before. It's only in these last few months that I have felt that I am starting to use my legs more effectively when climbing (rather than hauling myself up on jugs!). I've wondered if the pain was all about growing unfamiliar muscles, which are constantly being stressed while they are growing.

Anyway, I'd be interested to try a physio who is going to understand about exercise (rather than saying "stop larking around you daft old woman and get back to your knitting").


Lizzie

In reply to BusyLizzie: Sounds like piriformus syndrome... if it is, NSAIDs and ice should help, along with regular massage of the offending buttock, and regular stretching (the pigeon yoga pose is very good)

In reply to BusyLizzie:

I have sent you an email...

In reply to BusyLizzie: Just seen this tweet by Reading Wall:
FREE physio sessions 2moro night from @physio_world! Check out the link for details and how to book
http://www.readingclimbingcentre.com/free-physioworld-ltd-consultations/

maybe worth a look?

In reply to gingerwolf: You are a genius, I hadn't spotted that, and at my local wall too; I have emailed to try to book a session.

In reply to BusyLizzie: Thank you to Ciro and Riddle!

In reply to BusyLizzie: The answer (from the free physio session at the Reading wall) is over-pronation. (That's what the lady who sold me my trainers said too). The cure, he says, is orthotics in the shoes, a fortnight off running, and 3 or 4 massage sessions to sort out the stressed muscles. YIPPEEE.

In reply to BusyLizzie: Over pronation occurs when you heel strike, IMO it would be better in the long run to re-learn a natural forefoot strike instead of supporting bad habits Takes a bit of getting used to, but made a world of difference to my running.

In reply to Ciro: Hmmm, I suspect you are right. I have had the same thought. Thank you!

In reply to Ciro:

Just be careful with this, the amount of people it doesn't work for seems to be just as high. Ask any running specialist. Work on getting fit with your 'natural' running pattern and as you get quicker you will start to run mid and forefoot. My tuppence worth and I'm not qualified other than through experience.

In reply to Ciro: That's a big if. Why would NSAIDS and ice help a piriformis syndromes!? And if it's inflammatory as you suggest, why would you recommend stretch? Free physio, now that's good value!