Happy Tuesday that feels like a Monday! I am skipping a weekly recap this week because there wasn’t much working out last week to share. It was more about rest now for success later.
Before I get to that, I hope everyone who celebrated the 4th of July had a great long weekend! I was happy to stay local and not have much going on. We did spend most of the weekend shopping for deck furniture, so that was fun. (Please note the sarcasm; neither of us like those sorts of things! It brought back memories of trying to shop for house stuff last spring when we moved.) We did spend a few hours by the pool and went to my parents’ on Sunday afternoon. No 4th of July races for me- but I will get to the running update in a minute.
So let’s start out with some good news.
Last week I found out that I was selected to be an ambassador for the Annapolis Running Classic! It will be held on November 19th and you can read my recap from 2013 here. When I found out that they were accepting applications for ambassadors, I started thinking about how that could be my chance to finally commit to a fall half-marathon. I love racing during that time of the year, plus I won’t have to worry about starting to train any time soon. I applied before my foot starting giving me problems, but at this point I am really glad that I have plenty of time until the race. I also think it will be nice to train for a half rather than a full. I can run lower mileage and just focus on quality workouts.
You can save 15% when you register through July 15th using the code RUNNINGOUTOFWINE16. After July 16th, the discount will be 10% and there is a price increase after July 30th, so make sure you sign up early!
So now I have a race to train for- what’s the plan?
Well, step 1 is to get my foot back to normal. Last time I gave an update I thought it was on the mend. Last Monday I ran with no pain, I took a planned day off from running on Tuesday, and then by the end of the day Tuesday it was bothering me again. I’m trying to figure out if certain shoes aggravate it or what. I was wearing my Sperrys on Tuesday but I was on my feet quite a bit that day.
So I stopped running once again and decided to go see an orthopedist on Thursday. That was no help at all. He said something like “I think you had some irritation in the posterior tibialis, and this can be really bad, but for you it’s just minor, and it usually happens to people older than you, so it was probably just a random thing. And I think because of that your plantar fascia got a little irritated. So I’m gonna write you a prescription for naproxen, rest and take that for 2 weeks. Do some stretches and wear a night split and heel lifts.” I asked him what may have caused it and how I can prevent it from happening again like strengthening exercises, and he basically said he thought it was just a fluke and that there weren’t any exercises I should be doing. When they brought me a night splint and heel lifts they wanted them billed to my insurance but I had no idea if my insurance would cover them, so I said I didn’t want them. I also said I didn’t want the prescription for the anti-inflammatories.
This sounds all too familiar to my first experience at the doctor’s with plantar fasciitis in 2007. However, back then I didn’t know any better and took the script and started wearing orthotics. I’m not in so much pain that I need a painkiller- and I certainly don’t want to mask the pain giving me false hope that it’s better. I did get X-rays so at least I ruled out anything serious.
I left the appointment extremely frustrated, but decided if I am not going to listen to medical advice then I need to take control for myself. I’ll continue seeing my chiropractor as needed and work on stretching and strengthening exercises that I have researched on my own. I think my new running shoes are helping and I just need to be as practical as possible about work shoes. I have definitely seen an overall improvement, but I think my recovery and return to running will be slower than I initially thought. I’ll rest now for success later.
Without access to a gym, I really have been “resting”. It’s funny though, that I have been so busy that I often get in over 10,000 steps lately even though I am purposefully trying to rest my foot. I am hoping that in a few days I can start added doing some more walking to test things out before trying to run again.
- Ever get medical advice for a running injury that just didn’t sit right with you?
- Anyone have exercises that help strengthen the foot/inner ankle?
- How did you spend the 4th of July weekend?
- How do you rest when you are busy?
You may also like:
Initial Marathon Training Thoughts
A Look Back At January 2015
WIAW When I Thought I Was “Healthy”
meredith @ cookie chrunicles says
ugh, that is so frustrating! I hope it feels 100% soon. The only thing I can say is try kt tape and hydrate! I don’t know that the hydration will help your foot but my foot dr told me, as you know, that not drinking enough may have caused my major foot cramping/pain. And avoid flip flops for now. I hate that recommendation but supporting your feet the best way possible will probably help.
[email protected] says
Thanks! I agree, might as well hydrate- especially without running its something I am less focused on! I am slowly figuring out which shoes feel the best. I definitely think the gripping of flip flops aggravates it so I have stopped wearing those expect for going to the pool. I think once I start running again I will try the KT tape. I am not even sure how to wear it because I don’t know exactly what the problem is!
Michele @ paleorunningmomma says
That is pretty frustrating! I haven’t had a doctor every say something was a “fluke” and that would make me feel strange if they did! That’s something I would typically say to myself if I want to be in denial lol. Anyway, hopefully it really is going to be on the mend. I know for me regardless of running, transitioning to summer footwear like flip flops makes my feet freak out temporarily, so definitely go for supportive shoes since they definitely can’t hurt.
[email protected] says
Yea that’s what I figured. But I have also noticed that if the toe box of work shoes is too tight that my feet get irritated from that too! I figure its probably worse in the summer and maybe why I’m noticing it now.
Susie @ SuzLyfe says
If you were here in Chicago, I would send you to the Running Institute. And yes, I’ve gotten plenty of advice that doesn’t sit well with me. Often from my husband, the doctor, lol. Second opinion time!
[email protected] says
I wish I could go to the Running Institute in Chicago! My sister is also having foot problems and is going to a podiatrist soon, so I am hoping she can give a good recommendation. (funny enough she also went to a different podiatrist than me and got bad advice too!)
Kristina says
Oh no, I can feel your frustration through the post. I hope the rest helps you heal up quickly.
I love your motto!
PS: Next time call me, I would be happy to deck furniture shop for you haha!
[email protected] says
Sounds good! I am happy to pass on most kinds of shopping.
Laura @ This Runner's Recipes says
That is frustrating! My podiatrist wanted me to get orthotics after my sprain and that just didn’t sound right (or worth the cost) to me. I do some exercises for my foot and ankle with a resistance band—a PT prescribed them to me years ago. I loop the band against a low stable surface, loop it around my foot, and flex in different directions against the tension of the band: laterally both ways, plantar flex, amd and dorsiflex. They seem to help! I really hope your foot feels better soon!
[email protected] says
Thanks! I will have to try those exercises. Do you do them while sitting down or standing up?
Orthotics for you definitely doesn’t make sense, especially since it was an acute injury from an accident and not a biomechanical issue!
Michael Anderson says
Sorry for the frustrating mystery foot issue! 🙁
I definitely believe shoes can contribute to how our feet feel .. Funny though that you mention Sperrys – I was at the store yesterday trying on a variety of Sperry shoes and found the soles went from light cushion to OK cushion, but the sides all tended to be too unsupportive for me to think about wearing more than occasionally. It was funny since I practically lived in them from my late teens through mid 20s … perhaps coincidentally it was when I started running that I stopped wearing them? (also perhaps a good thing that in the late 80s/early 90s the shirt & tie era faded and black Reeboks became ‘high tech dress shoes’?). Anyway … wonder if that also plays into things?
[email protected] says
That’s interesting! I used to wear Sperrys all the time and didn’t have any issues. I tried them for one day last week (same pair I used to wear all the time) and it seemed like my foot was more aggravated that day. So I wasn’t wearing them all the time before my foot started hurting, but I’m thinking I should avoid them, at least for now. I was also on my feet a little more than usual that day so it’s hard to tell if the shoes were really the culprit.
I do always wear pretty sensible shoes, so other than avoiding flip flops I guess it’s just a matter of trial and error to see what works best!
Megan @ Meg Go Run says
Oh man I have had so many frustrating doctors appointments that at this point I don’t really even trust doctors anymore!!! I mean, I have had two orthos look at the EXACT SAME MRI images of my knee and one said I have arthritis and should get injections and one said I have the knees of a 20 yr old and that he wished he had my knees. Unless you really trust this ortho, say get a second opinion!!! I mean, obviously something is wrong since you have pain, but I swear sometimes orthos are disinterested in helping us and getting to the bottom of a problem unless it involves surgery so they can make $$$$$$. Yes, I am a bit jaded from my past experiences….
[email protected] says
So they told me the night splint they wanted me to get (and bill to my insurance- which may or may not have covered it) was $290. I looked them up on amazon and the same one was like $20!! I mean, maybe the one they were selling was medically approved or something, but there was no way I was risking spending that kind of money. Besides, I wasn’t about to try to sleep with a ski boot on my foot! It would be different if my foot was broken or something but if they are just saying its some muscle/tendon irritation than its just not worth it to me. Whew- sorry for the rant but I know you can relate!
Megan @ Meg Go Run says
I can relate. Rant away! And good for you for sticking up for yourself.
Lesley says
I stretch my feet and roll them with lacrosse and golf balls, but I’m not sure if there’s a way to strengthen them. I get phantom pains all the time at the very tip of my heel, so I ice them and figure I did something to jam them. I don’t use pain killers anymore because I never felt they worked, and I want to make sure I can feel any pain, anywhere, so I stop and take care of it.
[email protected] says
Ive definitely been rolling my foot and that feels so good! I don’t take painkillers either, unless I am really in alot of pain. I feel like it messes with my stomach, and like you, I want to be able to feel any pain and not just mask it.
Alyssa @ renaissancerunnergirl says
It’s always tough when you don’t get clear cut answers from doctors. I haven’t had so much with that with running injuries, but it’s been that way with a lot of my food allergies and sensitivities and stomach problems – they never seem to have an answer that’s more than a vague shot in the dark.
[email protected] says
Thats really frustrating! Especially with a chronic illness that affects your entire life!
[email protected] says
Any time I’ve had ankle issues they’ve almost always been related to tightness in my calf. Getting Graston done has really helped with that. I had a former doc who gave me similar advice and wanted me to get inserts and all that jazz, so I’m glad I found a PT I liked who was able to tell me what the root cause of my issue was and calf stretches to do. Hope you feel better soon Lisa!
[email protected] says
I’ve been stretching and rolling my calf but it actually doesn’t feel tight. I have always noticed calf tightness when I have foot issues too, but not so much this time! I feel like my calf on my bad side is actually really loose and flexible! My chiro and I did talk about other options up the chain that could cause problems, like my hip, but its tough to really figure out the root cause.
Sarah @pickyrunner says
It’s so frustrating when you have random pains that doctors can’t figure out. I went 4 years not knowing what I actually did to my knee and the doctors who did surgery couldn’t even understand what was going on, yet my PT did. Have you tried going back to Sean? I feel like he knows everything!!
[email protected] says
I haven’t gone back there but thats actually a good idea! I know sometimes they do injury clinics at CCR so maybe Ill look out for one of those. Its tough for me to get to Fed Hill now that I don’t live in the city any more (I would go for one or 2 appointments but I don’t think I could manage ongoing appointments for PT).
Suzy says
I am extremely lucky to have a physiotherapist who has fixed each and every single one of my issues since I started seeing him 20 years ago!! He’s amazing. But I am really sorry to hear about your foot. NOT COOL. You and I will be non-running together. But I know what you mean about how you get so many steps per day anyway. I’m curious to know how many I get as I literally don’t stop moving all day long!
[email protected] says
Thats so great that you have had the same physio for so long! I hope you are doing ok without running. I feel like I am getting used to it and its not as bad as I thought it would be. I went for walks yesterday and today and that was kind of nice! I do get jealous when I see other runners out there though:)
[email protected] says
Sorry to hear that you have still having foot pain. My friend had pain in his foot awhile back and his DR actually was a runner so he was very understanding. Hope you get your rest and have a seedy recovery.
[email protected] says
I always find that doctors who run are more helpful than those that don’t when it comes to running injuries!
Ana says
Congratulations on being selected as a Race Ambassador ! That sounds like an amazing opportunity!
I’m sorry to hear you are getting conflicting information from the Ortho! that Sucks !! I have no advice for you, but I have seen (and done) some strange foot exercises. They were something like picking up a sock from the floor with my toes, a few reps. They seem weird, but I must enjoy acting like a monkey! I was having a lot of toe pain last year.
[email protected] says
I have heard that picking things up with your toes is good for your feet! I have been doing some exercises that I have read about online and they all seem a little silly:)
Meranda@Fairytalesandfitness says
Congrats on being selected as an ambassador. Sounds like you have a good plan in place. You want to e 100% for that race!
[email protected] says
Thanks! I keep reminding myself about my long term goals during this setback:)
Laura @ Mommy Run Fast says
Ugh. I have had very similar experiences with doctors. You never know what you’re going to here- unless they are also a runner. in that case, i find they are better at helping you find alternative ways to heal and prevent future injuries.
[email protected] says
Yup I definitely agree that I have more luck with doctors who run! My current chiropractor and my previous one are both runners and they are both more helpful with running injuries than any orthopedist in my opinion.
Rachael @ Catch Me if You Can says
i just got some medical advice for a figer problem i’ve been having for a few weeks that was zero % helpful…since the doctor said she had no idea what was wrong with it. ok great thanks heres $150 to tell me you have no idea 😛 hope your foot gets to feeling better soon, you kinda need it to run 😉
[email protected] says
Ugh that’s really frustrating! I hate when they don’t have any answers- it makes me feel like something is SO wrong with me that they can’t even figure out whats going on!
Kristy from Southern In Law says
Congrats on being selected as an ambassador, girl!
I totally feel you on the annoying doctor advice. I went to the doctor’s the other day only to be told “well…. I don’t know how it happened, I don’t know how to fix it and I don’t know how long it will last but yeah, bye!”
[email protected] says
Thank you!
Wow, thats so annoying. Sorry you had a bad experience with a doctor too!
Sam @ See Sam Run says
I can’t wait to run Annapolis with you! I think with what you’ve been dealing with lately it’s a great thing for you to focus on a half instead of a full. I’m sorry your foot is still bothering you! I can’t imagine how frustrated you must feel. Seriously, aren’t doctors supposed to be smart and want to get to the root of your problems?
[email protected] says
Yea its really frustrating! I wish I at least had a real diagnosis/cause/plan. But Im definitely looking forward to Annapolis and that should give me plenty of time to recover from whatever this is!
Marcia says
Blah! Sorry to hear your foot is bothering you again and that you were disappointed with what your doc prescribed. I’ve definitely been there and sought help in another direction. I think you’re wise to rest up, regroup and listen to your heart when it comes to medical advice. I think you know your own body best in this case.
[email protected] says
Thanks- that’s exactly what I have been doing. It’s frustrating but I do think that resting and seeking a second opinion (if needed) is my best option.
Sarah says
I’m sorry to hear this Lisa – it must be so frustrating. I’ve had a bunch of muscle issues in my left leg and am so thankful that I found a great PT that is really helping me out. They did a whole assessment of my biomechanics and it turns out that it’s a problem with hips/glutes (old news) and external rotation. We’re lucky to have a running clinic at the PT clinic and I can’t recommend it enough – unfortunately for you it’s all the way out here in Utah. I hope you find your answers soon.
[email protected] says
I may look for something similar around here, but I have had lots of assessments in the past. Not sure if they would find something new but its worth a try if Im not getting better!
Patty says
Gah- I hate that it’s still bothering you! I hope you work it out- and sorry, I am no help in this arena! And congrats on your ambassadorship!
[email protected] says
Thanks! Now I’m just hoping I can get better in time to train for the race!
Sarah @ BucketListTummy says
That’s too bad that the doctor wasn’t that much help. I really think rest can help heal many things. That is awesome about being selected as an ambassador! After my 4th of July this year, low key next year sounds very good to me!
[email protected] says
I would have thought it would be feeling better by now with so much time off running, but I guess it’s hard to truly rest my foot when I am still walking on it.
Low key holidays can definitely be nice and relaxing!
Karen @ Fit in France says
Ugh, not fun. I have found changing shoes often helps. I never wear flats very long, nor high heels.
Orthodics changed my life… no more knee or hip pain. But then again I had a very patient doctor who modified them several times until they were perfect. Your doctor’s answer was crappy.
I had some recent pain and in 2 weeks I only ran twice, and didn’t do much else. It worked like a charm. No more pain.
[email protected] says
That’s great that you have felt better from that time off! I have run 3 times in the past month and unfortunately I am not really noticing a difference. Hopefully i will eventually find a doctor who is as patient as yours!
Bre says
Hi! I follow your blog, love it. First time to comment but felt a had to share because as a runner injury is the worst thing ever even when it might seem minor. I have been running for 10 years, half marathons and just as a hobby and “mental medication”! i recently had Peroneal tendonitis, you can google, it is basically a tendon in the outside of foot that runs up the side of the leg. Part of the tendon also runs under the foot to the big toe, which I later learned caused my pain but didn’t recognize it. I saw a physical therapist, after going for weeks to a sports medicine chiro … The physical therapist insisted I try a shoe insert. I’ve never needed one ever before, and thought it was not going to work! I do have mid to high arches and always kept the same style and brand of shoe. I wore the inserts for a day and by day 3 i ran 6 miles! It was crazy. I did have to be careful but after all the years I’ve ran and had various injuries, the peroneal tendonitis was the worst! Best wishes to you.
[email protected] says
Thanks so much for your comment! I used to wear orthotics, but after having hip surgery 5 years ago I was told I no longer needed them. My feet have always felt fine up until now! I would be willing to try something like that if I knew what the issue was and if I could try some other treatment methods first. I’m glad you figured out a way to continue running pain free!