Any runners help me about this injury?

[woahthere]

Hi, I've been running for a year and a half on and off. Since September I have got quite into it and have built myself up to comfortably run 6 miles. Have just entered myself for my first ever 10k race. I wanted to improve my speed so went to a session that practised sprinting. I really enjoyed it and with being shown how to get the best result was running quite fast in short bursts. Problem is now, that 10 days later and I am in so much pain across my quadriceps. Was a bit achy initially after but thought was normal as obviously using muscles differently to normal, but even now if I kneel on the floor and try to stand up it causes a tearing sensation that is very painful across the top of both my thighs. I tried to have a little race with my son earlier and it happened again. I'm so frustrated but can't even try to run. Has anyone else ever had this, will it take long to get better? Do I need to see a doctor or will he just say I've sprained my quadriceps?

[woahthere]

bump!

[IndigoBarbie]

Ouch! sounds painful. As an ex-runner I'd ask if you are able to do some gentle stretches on the muscles? It does sound like you've overdone it though.....I'd probably go and see a physio/dr and just make sure you are looking after yourself, until the pain subsides, probably best not to run :(

[Clure]

ooh, feel for you. i'm a runner (currently in training for a marathon and battling injury too!) Def sounds like you have over-trained. I would suggest rest from running, possibly ice the affected area. Gentle stretching as Indigo suggests. I no better then see GP. Well done on the running and good luck!

[anoldbloke]

Could well be micro muscle tears. The old rule is RICE: rest, ice, compression, elevation.

Soft tissue injuries need about 3 weeks to mend. You may have gone off into speedwork too quickly and without properly warming up.

Can you swim or cycle in the interim to keep your cardio-vascular system employed?