hip pain

Question
Hi john,

I'm 23 and just completed my first half marathon 2 weeks ago. I felt fine during the race, until the last mile or so, I started getting a nagging pain in my hip that extended down my outer thigh. It was fine when I stopped running, but once I started running again after a few days, the pain came around after a mile or so. I've been taking it really easy, and just ran a really slow 3 miles on sunday, and although it was a little uncomfortable during the run, it was much worse by the end of the day.  I started getting a dull, aching/burning sort of feeling really deep in my hip. I can still walk and move around, but its definitely uncomfortable when i walk or sit in one place for too long. Its only been 3 days so far, but I'm beginning to wonder if this is a common thing that will go away eventually on its own or not. Any input you have would be great!

Answer
Hi karen
Nothing goes away on its own.With out knowing your bio and training program the situation you described is probably an IT band situation, stretching it is the key,you can google it to to better understand what it is.Most injuries running related are directly related to tracking and alignment and as some one who just finished there first half marathon it is quite normal to experience some discomfort from the effort.I recommend you add a couple times a week some stationary bike workouts of 40 minutes to maintain your tracking and alignment.The bottom line is you have to always maintain a prevention program of modalities to stay injury free as you continue forward with your training and experience higher levels of performance.You can always call me any time here in albuquerque new mexico at 505 271 5909 from 6am on for additional questions.

All the very best Karen

John