GrooveButcher says:

Wondering if anyone has come across this injury before which I seemed to have picked up during a run yesterday.

Half way through my run, I went through a gate, turned to close it and then turned back to run off and immediately got a sharp stabbing pain in the middle of my back, so sharp it took my breath away. Ever since then, depending on how I move, I'll get the sharp pain.

It doesn't feel necessarily muscular, there's no dull ache like 'normal' back pain, just a sharp stabbing pain.

Has anyone had this before and any clue what it could be?

Thanks.

 backpainadvisor says:

What you have most likely done is irritated a rib joint in your mid back. These joints are very small and if you twist at certain times you can strain them. The muscles between your ribs are short and will also go into spasm creating the sharp pain.

This is why it takes your breath away. You can check to see if it is the rib by taking a deep breath in, if it is sore then definitely the rib. IF not then it may be the rib at a minor level or a few spinal joints in the area being tight and it is the muscles causing the back pain.

There are some simple stretches and techniques you can do at home to ease the discomfort. But if it continues you should look to learn a few ways to balance your entire spine - which helps with running as well.

Cheers
Dr Graeme Teague
The Back Pain Advisor
www.back-pain-advisor.com
www.backpainadvisor.wordpress.com

 GrooveButcher says:

Thanks. What stretches would you recommend?