I have had two back surgeries, full ankle ligament replacement and several other surgeries. I started out at 247 lbs and started running. Also I am 52. I had chronic back pain to where it was almost completely debilitating. Running was the only thing that helped the pain. I am now 190 and find running as a great release. I just did my second half marathon and am doing the st George full this year. Just don’t over train. Pulled a hammy that set me back a bit. Good luck.