Treatment for back injury

[Jaquta]

Hi.  I have a sore back.  I have a history of a prolapsed disc.  Last year I had referred pain in my left quad for which I had physio.  I have pain and tingling in my foot and calf periodically.
I joined a running group a week ago.  The runs I found quite fast and challenging.  I went for a long run on Sunday.
I have had left quad pain again followed by pain on my right hand side underneath my ribs.

I'm unsure whether to see a doctor or not.  My doctor is currently away but will be back next week.  Not sure whether I actually need to see someone.

My concerns are:
What do I do about my back?  I've been doing the back exercises the physio gave me last year (which don't seem to be helping a lot).  I was taking volatren tablets I had been given but have run out.  Should I be taking more?
How long am I likely going to need off running?

I think some of the other pain I was having was due to reflux and possible gallstones.  Not sure.  It feels better now.

Any advice?

[Jaquta]

I read a book that said you could get free-running miles by doing some time on the elliptical followed by a short run.

I've just joined an athletics club.  Maybe watching the intensity could be a good idea.  Possibly I started out too fast.

Thanks for your suggestions.

[gymdandee]

Running isn't good for the back! how about the Elliptical or Bike?