Running Anyone?

[twiggy]

Prior to getting this nasty bleeping disease, I did a lot of running. Then, because I got soooooo many UTI's, I stopped. Now, I want to start again. I imagine there will be pain, but am I actually damaging my bladder. I would looooooovvvvvvvvveeeeeeee to start running again? I will, of course, ask my uro this week--but are there any other IC'ers out there who run? (Otherwise, I am going to get fat!!!!)

[Imustpee]

I can't run...bad knees, but I powerwalk... :)

[HGC]

I actually run 2-3 times a week about 3 miles each time. If my bladder is really bothering me I usually run slower but running makes me feel better. It gets rid of all the stress in my life and even if I feel a little worse after running - it's worth it. My Dr. advised me not to run more than 3 miles at a time. I would rather exercise than lay on the couch and feel bad for myself.
HGC

[Moby]

I love running and used to run 6-8 miles per day. Now if I run I hurt BIG TIME!!! The pain from a run can last a couple of days, so I can't run on consecutive days. Sometimes I do it anyways, I take a pain pill right after (or sometimes before). I have been told an elliptical workout (or biking) is the way to go to be pain-free, but I have yet to try these. I do lift weights and do pilates w. minor or no pain, but nothing compared to running. Good Luck - let me know how it goes for you! :) Dianne

[Heather826]

Hi Twiggy,
If you are feeling well enough...I'd encourage you to try running again. I was diagnosed last year with severe IC (new diagnosis)...and like you I loved to run. After wading through the learning curve of a new dx I decided to try to do what I could...even with some pain/discomfort. Every day was different....somedays I couldn't run...but on the good days I did. Eventually everything did settle and I'm very excited to report I just completed the New York City Marathon last month. I realize I'm one of the lucky ones, as everyone has a different story (that's one of the hardest part of this disease...you just don't know what will happen in your next chapter). So for me each day is a gift and it's about seeing what is possible today. All the best....Heather

[ICNDonna]

I do better with low impact exercises, but if you can run without pain, and your doctor approves, I say go for it!

Hugs,
Donna

[dminton]

I used to jog, but I had to stop because the jarring on my bladder is too uncomfortable. However, I like the EFX machine at the gym because it feels a little like jogging, but there is no impact. It's also like cross-country skiing and hiking up hill, all rolled into one. I really recommend it for aerobic effect without impact. Good luck!

[twiggy]

Well, done Heather! You are certainly an inspiration!!!!!! Haven't tried it yet, still too much pain. I am going to try the elliptical trainer though. I have really let things slide because of the pain I get from this disease. Must get motivated again!

[Iris]

Hi, I know I have just begun exercising again, about a month now, I do both exercise bike, and treadmill. I have found that for me, the treadmill is the one that does not bother me as much as the bike, and am starting a pilates exercise routine. Congrats on doing the New York Marathon, that is really great, I know running bothers me, but must admit I do like getting back into a regular exercise routine again. I am dealing with a minor flare up today, but maybe diet related :hmm: :flower:

[KimmerLJ]

I am really greatful for these boards. I still struggle with the idea that I have IC. I don't have the urethral burning but still have to get up in the middle of the night to urinate anywhere from 3-6 times. I have also just started on hormone replacement. I do get lower pelvic pain and pain with urination after exercising. The pain usually begins by night. I notice it more when I lie down. It doesn't seem to bother me as much when I am in an upright position. Sometimes it feels like my guts are burning. Maybe I should give Elmiron a try again. I took atarax but hated feeling groggy all the time. I am so greatful to be able to read the boards...this has been an overwhelming experience and most depressing. Thanks.

[dragonfly7412]

Hi! I just posted my exercise routine of swimming (it helped me with UTI's as well, but I don't know if the chlorine is safe), and I run frequently as well. Sometimes around my period (for about 2 weeks before), I can't because I get really irritated (not mentally, although that as well!) and I found it was very painful afterwards. We should start a running club, but I guess that wouldn't work online. Anyway, I try to wear baggy clothes and drink tons of water afterwards (if I did that before my run would last about 5 minutes) to flush my system out (I don't know if this helps, but I rationalize it by saying it gets rid of sweat and water is good anyway). I admit I do not have chronic pain from IC, only 1 or 2 flare ups a month, so maybe this is why I can still run sometimes. I think it must be difficult to experience this all the time, I know that when it is really painful, I feel like it is not about motivating myself, but almost like my body is saying to me 'I just can't do it, I am too busy fixing myself, please try again later.' (yes, I often speak to my body outloud). It is upsetting when you are willing to do the difficult stuff (exercise, not take as much med's, work tons of hours, ect.) but you just actually physically cannot! It just does not seem fair. Well, I hope this helped a bit, maybe just try going for short walks to start off, good luck!

[KimmerLJ]

Thanks for your input DragonFly. Since I last wrote I have been treated for a possible infection of the bladder wall and a round of ABX...the urethral burning and my IC symptoms flared up and the are just beginning to settle down a bit. People have often suggested swimming but I cannot tolerate Chlorine with the vulvodynia and urethral burning. With the Christmas Holidays over I have been able to get more balanced..I went to the gym yesterday to try the rowing machine and ecliptical machine...we will see. I find it rather difficult in making this adjustment in my life. It has affected a relationship I have been in over the last 1 1/2yrs because of my limitations and their are children involved. Thanks for the reminder that bottomline is I am willing but physically can't for right now and it isn't FAIR..Anyways thanks for lettimg me share and for everyone's understanding and support. Kimmer

[twiggy]

I tried swimming and ended up with a UTI. My uro said swimming should cause UTI's, but I got one. Frustrating!!!!!!!! I use the elliptical trainer now and walk on a treadmill with weights. Can't run as it causes flares. I HATE THIS STUPID CONDITION!

[Sherry5]

You guys have given me hope! I used to do aerobics, kickboxing, and weights five days a week, but because of IC I haven't done anything in over two months. I have gained 10 pounds and lost a lot of muscle. I planned to start pilates soon, but maybe I can get back to my regular routine when I get a handle on this thing. Thank you! :)

[trytosmile]

I used to run 10K 5-6 times a week. I do powerwalk and I find the impact to my bladder isn't as bad as the running. I found with the running my bladder when into spasams. Just wasn't going to work. That being said, now that colder weather, powerwalking far and few. As soon as I get out the door the cold hits my bladder and I gotta go. Don't think there is a time now when I don't get going and I have to turn around and head back home.

I now do alot of pilates, yoga, light weights.

Not giving up though, I will play baseball, ballhockey, kick box, golf 18 holes and a whole bunch more one day. ;)