Specific sports injuries: running and back pain How running causes back pain Back muscles work to keep the body upright and in good posture during the duration of the run Joints and discs are jarred and compressed by the force of the body leaving the ground and landing on every stride when running or jogging Preventing back pain and sports injuries from running Wear top-quality cushioned running shoes Run on softer surfaces (grass or padded track) Do more frequent but shorter runs as opposed to marathon running Use form that reduces the "up and down" stride motion and focuses on forward motion while running; lead with the chest, keeping the head tall and balanced over the chest Maintain strong abdominal muscles to help stabilize the lower back while running