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In my many years as a runner, I have used Ibuprofen to help me deal with occasional pain and soreness. I have been known to pop a pill after a long run to prevent that post “long run soreness”. I’ve even downed a few before a workout when dealing with some persistent discomfort.

Of course, I have regular massages to help prevent and reduce any of the soreness and pain from hard training…..but you know how it goes – there are just those days when you want to get out there and you don’t want that stubborn soreness to stop you.

I just read an article that leads me to think that I wasn’t doing myself any favors. According to the article, researchers found more inflammation in athletes that used Ibuprofen before/during activity….. actually inhibiting recovery. And, compared to athletes not taking Ibuprofen, their legs were just as sore post-activity.

Something to think about, and more reason to not use pills to mask your pain. Keeping those muscles loose and healthy with massage, stretching and proper hydration and nutrition is best in the “long run” anyway.