Upper thigh pain caused by running?

Asked by: Amy Love

ITBS (iliotibial band syndrome) The iliotibial band is a ligament that runs along the outer thigh from the hip to the knee. ITBS occurs when this ligament thickens and rubs the knee bone, causing inflammation. Long-distance runners are more susceptible to this form of thigh pain.

Why do my upper thighs hurt after running?

Upper thigh pain after running is most commonly caused by muscle strains and overuse injuries.

How do I get rid of thigh pain after running?

To help relieve muscle soreness, try:

1. Gentle stretching.
2. Muscle massage.
3. Rest.
4. Ice to help reduce inflammation.
5. Heat to help increase blood flow to your muscles. …
6. Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicine, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) like ibuprofen (brand name: Advil).

Is it OK to run with thigh pain?

#2: Do Not Run If the Leg Soreness Is Localized



On a related note to pain, if the soreness in your legs is isolated to one area, particularly if it’s unilateral, it may be best to rest. For example, if your right shin is sore, it’s wiser to take a rest day or try low-impact cross-training.

What exercises can I do to relieve thigh pain?

To stretch the back of your thigh, lie on your back and lift one leg towards your chest. Place your hands behind your knee. Gently pull your leg towards your chest – you should feel a stretch in the back of your sore thigh. Hold for up to 10 seconds then return your leg to the floor.

What causes pain at top front of thigh?

Quadriceps strain (thigh strain)



A thigh strain or quadriceps strain is a tear in one of the quadriceps muscles at the front of the thigh. Symptoms typically include: Sudden sharp pain at the front of your thigh. Swelling may develop depending on how severe your injury is.

Should you push through muscle soreness?

“Working out when sore is okay as long as it isn’t affecting your movement to the point where it’s causing you to compensate and do something in a way that’s unsafe,” says Dr. Hedt. “Muscle soreness can be a deterrent to exercising, but it’s temporary and the more you exercise, the less you should feel it.

When should I be concerned about thigh pain?

Signs and symptoms that warrant a visit to a medical professional include: Severe pain that limits your ability to function (like having difficulty walking) Thigh pain accompanied by fever or malaise (can be a sign of infection) Thigh pain with redness, swelling, and warmth of your skin (can sign of a blood clot)

How do you stretch your upper thigh?

You're going to find a bar or a bench that's about knee height. Place your foot on that the top of your foot on that and push your hips forward.

What drinks help sore muscles?

The 10 Best Muscle Recovery Foods and Drinks

• Tart cherry juice. Drinking tart cherry juice may benefit both trained athletes and novice gym-goers alike. …
• Watermelon and watermelon juice. Watermelon is sweet, hydrating, and loaded with nutrients. …
• Fatty fish. …
• Beet juice. …
• Whey protein shakes. …
• Dairy. …
• Starchy vegetables. …
• Coffee.

How do you relax your thigh muscles?

Thigh stretch – hold for 10 to 15 seconds



Lie on your right side. Grab the top of your left foot and gently pull your heel towards your left buttock to stretch the front of the thigh. Keep your knees touching. Repeat on the other side.

How do you relieve tight thigh muscles?

Here is how you stretch them:

1. Stand upright.
2. Spread your legs shoulder-distance apart.
3. Slowly lean to your right while bending your right knee.
4. Keep your left leg straight.
5. Continue until a gentle stretch is felt in your inner left thigh.
6. Hold for five seconds.
7. Return to the start position.

Why is my upper thigh so tight?

Overtraining or overuse. Tight muscle in the legs can also occur due to overtraining. When you work your quads, hamstrings, or any other muscle in the leg, the muscle fibers contract. Work them too hard and they may not release.