Hip/Back Issues

Question
I have been running for a few months, and recently had back issues, which now have resulted in a hip issue.  My back issues is on the lower right side of my back, and is concentrated in that area.  It tends to be either a sharp pain, or a constant dull pain.  The hip issue typically begins after about 1.5 miles into a run.  The inside of my right hip will begin to lock up on the back end of a stride.  Throughout the day, I can "pop" my hip back into place (when seated, I will thrust my right knee farther out to the right, which seems to bring my right hip to the left, and thus "pop" it back into place).   I need to know if there is a stretch, or strengthening excerise I can do.  I am supposed to run a 1/2 marathon in May, and at this point, I can't get through 1 1/2 miles.

Answer
Hi Stefanie
Most all problems are directly related to alignment and tracking.This is something that takes time to correct.There is not one specific exercise or stretch etc.that will take care of it.You have to get into rebalancing the body with a good all around stretching and strengthing program.For the the near term i can't put my finger on the exact situation that is causing it since i know nothing of your bio of training past and present height weight age other than you said you have only been running for about three months.The one exercise i would recommend to help get some alignment and tracking back quickly is start some stationary bike workouts and a complete easy stretching overall body program.Here is a web site that has a lot of good stuff that you can brouse thru for stretches and core work etc.If you have other questions just get in touch.www.ronjones.org

All the best

John