fix my leg issues... please!!

[MrsMatt]

I am soo frustrated right now! My training has sucked lately! It seems like either my legs are burning so much I want to quit running, or I have absolutely no energy to do speed work or even finish a planned run. My legs occasionally burn, but this has become the norm now! AND my right hip has been in pain for weeks... and my left side's sciatic nerve has been driving me insane for weeks as well! Oy...

Anyone have any advice for any/all of my issues?? LOL. I don't know why everything has gone downhill lately. It all started the week before a race I'd been really excited for (this was a couple of weeks ago), and I'm terrified that my upcoming half next weekend will totally suck... And I did not dramatically increase training in the last few weeks. For the most part I'm running a lot less because of all of these problems!

I need help getting my running groove back... For now I'm taking a ton of Aleve and vitamins but obviously I don't think that will help the lactic acid issue! Any advice?

[sockerheel]

I'm a personal trainer, but not a doctor, so take what I say with a grain of salt.

I know a kinesiology expert that would recommend taking a couple of antacids before exercise to help with lactic acid. I don't know the science behind it, but it can't hurt, right? Also try slowing down, taking some walk breaks every few minutes, stay hydrated.

The hip pain could possibly be bursitis. I've had it in the past --- it was a dull, persistent ache deep in the joint. I did PT for it --- ice, heat, and ultrasound. It took a while to go away though. Continuing to train on it would only make it worse.

You should probably see a doctor to get your issues checked out. Good luck.

[runblondie26]

Well there can be a ton of different issues at play here. Have you been working out in the heat?

Just coming from my personal experience, I struggle with electrolyte balance and hydration during the summer. Make sure you're drinking a lot of extra water throughout the day. I salt my foods heavily and try to get my potassium and magnesium by eating foods rich in those vitamins. Still I find can't keep up with my needs during the summer. Taking some extra potassium/magnesium supplements has really helped cut down on my leg cramping and fatigue. Of course, consult your doctor about any supplement routine.