6 Common Exercise Aches and What To Do When the Pain Won’t Go Away

From the Summer 2011 StayHealthy publication

No matter if you've been active your entire life or are just now beginning to get moving, you've probably had your fair share of aches and pains from sports and exercise.

So what do you do when the pain, twinge or ache won't go away?

Let us help you decide.

1. Front of Knee Pain

Often called "runner's knee," Orthopedic Surgeon Bruce Thorna, MD, advises individuals with this type of injury to cut back their exercise routine until the pain subsides and try exercises that strengthen the quadriceps and hip adductors. He went on to say, "If the pain persists for more than two weeks, it's time to see an orthopedist."

2. Bottom of Foot Pain

Usually the result of an inflammation of the ligament, or fascia, that connects your heel bone to your toes, Podiatrist Marc Bruell, DPM, recommends reducing the amount of time spent on high impact activities until the pain goes away. "I encourage my patients to concentrate on strengthening and stretching their calves and arches," he said. He also said custom orthotics may help remedy this problem.

3. Lower Back Pain

Spine Surgeon Anton Thompkins, MD, explained that most back pain improves without medical intervention, but added that if the pain prevents you from your daily routine you should consult a physician. "We discourage bed rest anymore and instead focus on encouraging people to improve their strength and flexibility," Dr. Thompkins said, noting that surgery for chronic back pain is the last resort.

4. Shoulder Pain

The probable problem is irritation or tendonitis of the rotator cuff. "The best plan of action is to avoid motions that stress your shoulders and to ice the area for 15 minutes every few hours for the first few days," said Orthopedic Surgeon Anthony Levenda, MD. He went on to say that these types of injuries usually heal within two weeks, but cautioned that if the pain is severe or the person is unable to use their arm they should get medical treatment.

5. Elbow Pain

So-called tennis elbow can be triggered by any activity that overloads the muscles that extend the wrist. "At some point in their lifetime, 90 percent of the population will have this problem- it's not limited to tennis players," said Orthopedic Surgeon Aaron Anderson, MD. Dr. Anderson explained that, with conservative treatment, the condition usually resolves on its own, but he suggested people may want to contact a physician if pain persists for more than two months.

6. Shin Pain

Shin splints and stress fractures are common injuries, explained Orthopedic Surgeon Thomas Kay, MD. "If after conservative treatment the pain doesn't go away or worsens, you should see a doctor," he said. An X-ray will determine if stress fractures are present. If this is the case, you should take a 4-8 week break from your normal routine. He went on to say the best remedy for shin splints is to make sure your athletic shoes fit properly and that you cross train with an activity that lessens the impact on your shins.