Pain in calf, upper buttocks, and lower back

Question
I am a big fan of jogging as a means of keeping in shape. I don't do it religiously like I should, but I like to get out there at least once a week. The past couple years I have been getting pains in my lower back, as well as my right calf, and right upper buttocks muscles. I stretch thoroughly before jogging, but no matter how long I do it always ends up hurting, and I feel it really slows me down. It is apparent that my right leg is shorter than my left, and I was wondering if this could be creating the problem. Should I see a specialist about trying to correct this problem. Any information would be helpful.

Thanks,
Kellan

Answer
I'd see a specialist, especially due to the leg length issue, since that can cause many problems currently and down the road for you.  I must add that stretching before a run isn't all its cracked up to be.  Warm-up techniques have improved greatly over the past decade and the typical 'hold & stretch' is not an ideal warm-up as it was once thought to be 'gospel' among active people.  Now its not the best thing to do, because the muscles don't get fully warmed up like they should.  I use a massage stick device first to take to the muscles and get them 'tuned up' with increased blood flow & nerve stimulation.  Check out intracell.net to see what I am talking about here.  

I hope you find the help you need from a specialist's standpoint.

Rick Karboviak
http:/tips.speeddialcoach.com