to carrying a backpack with water, gear etc. Recently I developed some lower back pain due to posture; as an asthmatic, I tend to hunch slightly. I've actually found that the pack helps relieve the pain, partly because it makes me brace my shoulders and partly
to have both my big toenails pulled off. I can't put the pain into words! – MOLAfter a half marathon I developed black toenails, an ache in the ball of my feet, and also an ache in my groin. It all seemed linked. I went to a great NHS physio who identified
, and the gorgeous surroundings of ponds, trees and chocolate-box village greens did much to ease the pain. But there was no denying the challenge of that route, and one or two casualties could be spotted being attended by St John's Ambulance crew in the latter
jog back to cool down. He feels that cooling-down causes your body to 'forget' what it has learnt in the speed work session. I don't understand the science behind it, and need your thoughts." – Shachar's dadYour best answersWhat is your coach thinking
with you, and don't push it too hard.– Mike Saunders(Note from Jane: asthma is no bar to running, if Paula Radcliffe is anything to go by! Click here to find out what she told us about controlling her asthma back in September)Encourage him, but don't overdo
"How soon should I run after I've had a cold? I've always been sporty, but I've only been running seriously for a few months. In the past when I've had colds and coughs, I've often gone back to sport as soon as I've been able to breathe properly
This week's question was emailed to us by forum member Little T, who gets a painful stitch every time she runs."I've just returned to running after four months off with an injury. Unfortunately, I'm getting really bad stitch each time I run – always
! – Harry NotterFor muscles that go solid or painful overnight, my rheumatology consultant suggested a low dose of amitriptylene. Milk and paracetamol with codeine also does the trick; paracetamol is easier on the tum than ibuprofen. – SticklessAvoid all
was careful to listen to my body and ease back if I felt tired. – MinksClick here to read the rest of Minks's excellent responseThe advice about running whilst pregnant is very confusing. As with everything to do with children, there are as many answers
, and partly for general health reasons. But I feel sluggish and my work is suffering. Is there really a point to this caffeine-free lark?" – Jane Hoskyn aka e17 pixieYour best answersResensitising really works, so brave it outI abstain from caffeine now
