Lately, I’ve heard from a few subscribers that either injury, or just feeling stale or burned out, means that for right now they can’t run.
Maybe it’s coincidence or maybe it’s not, but I also happened to stumble across this series of columns by Dimity McDowell, one of the co-founders of the longtime blog and podcast Another Mother Runner, in which she shares how injuries have permanently sidelined her from running and what she’s doing to replace it. (Which is a pretty significant challenge, to say the least, especially if you’re someone whose professional life is intertwined so closely with being a runner.)
That got me wondering: I know many of you have experienced this, as have I earlier this year. How do you handle staying on the sidelines, when you have something you love doing and want to get back to — but, for one reason or another, just can’t right now? — Terrell
Last July I was injured while training for the NYC marathon. We had a group of us that were going to be running it, including my husband, which promised to be a fun time all around. The injury turned out to be a torn labrum in my hip and a gluteal strain. I was lucky that the tear was small and did not require surgical repair, however the recovery period was 8 weeks of no running with a gradual return to running. This took me out of the marathon, as I chose to heed my doctor's advice and give my body the time it needed to heal. I didn't want this to turn into an injury that would require surgery or one that could permanently sideline me. I also had the London marathon on the calendar in April and decided I would be better off to rehab my injury properly and focus on getting to London healthy and whole. This was a difficult decision, but by focusing on the big picture it made it easier to take. My husband and friends still ran NYC and I still went on the trip and had a wonderful time. On marathon Sunday I was a bit sad that I wasn't getting out there with everyone else, but I knew I had made the right decision. I think focusing on the big picture, whether that be a future race or the ability to keep running, is very important to keeping things in perspective. Yes, the immediate disappointment is real but your future self will be happy that you made a good decision for them.
Can’t agree more with Debby … my best to you in your future races. Take it from someone who is the a back of the pack guy, take care of you so you can continue to get out there in all the years to come.
You have written an outstanding and honest post! Thank you for it! Two things you said really stood out to me: Focusing on the big picture; and Your future self will be happy. Wishing you all the best!!
For those who are injured and are dealing with the emotional impact, may I suggest a book? It’s called “Rebound” and it’s given me a lot of comfort when I’m injured, mainly through practical mental exercises (since we all want to still feel like we’re “doing something” when we are sidelined).
So thankful I looked that up. I had trained for Half marathon for Apr, in the week I started tapering, ( 2 weeks till race) I came down with Covid... I didn't give up, thinking I maybe could do Nashville half very end of Apr. Didn't work for that, but went and did 10k... However I'm still struggling with my breathing, just reading things people were saying about the book helped me so much..... Ordering it today.. thanks for sharing
So my wife and I got COVID in August 2022 after returning from North Bend WA (Jack & Jill Half) … we had done 2 of 3 5Ks for a Disney event that raised funds for a North Florida Girl Scout Council. It took us a solid 3 weeks before we felt good enough to venture out and when we did, we walked the 3rd 5K. I have no advice on how best to get back into your stride … just know that we are all behind you in your recovery.
Thank you so much, I just turned 72 this week, and really thankful that I'm still running, albeit Slower. I'm just gonna take the running gradually and focus on good solid walking. Wanting to do a half in Sept. Yall have fun at your races......
I've been sidelined with plantar fasciitis, after running a half marathon at Marshall University. After trying everything, including podiatrists and shots, a chiropractor has finally fixed me! I would walk a lot, which was still painful, but doable; and lots of weights. I'm signing up for a 5k in August, and hopefully can build back up from there.
Ugh, I feel your pain, Mary -- I experienced my own bout with it earlier this year. Glad to hear you found a chiropractor who could fix you! Can't wait to hear how the 5K goes in August.
Thanks Terrell. I tore my calf muscle 2 months ago and am so miserable about not being able to run. That sounds like a book I need! I’m currently mountain biking but I’m not very good and it’s hard to control my dog when I’m on a bike!
When I. had Covid, I returned to running by walking slow. Then, I sped up my walking, and would add a minute or so of slow jogging every 5 minutes. Just took my time. When I had plantar fasciitis, I traded running for Elliptigo (cross between an elliptical machine and a bike), but I suppose I could have traded any low impact exercise.
My daughter, who is the one who got me into running, did her last half marathon for awhile on May 5, 13 weeks pregnant with twins. She decided to stop running for now and has switched to Orangetheory which is a cross training aerobic/strength class and she plans on switching to yoga as she progresses with the pregnancy. So many choices, but, I get it. It's hard to give up running.
Everyone gets injured. There are infinite other distractions. So, intelligent recovery and rest. Cross training (which should be part of every training program). Read about running, watch running on the screens, watch running live, volunteer at races, talk to strangers about your running injury, create a back up hobby, "try a new plan Stan". Good luck!
I had surgery for a Haglund's deformity in mid-January, so I haven't been able to run for over four months now. I'm hoping to get back to it around the six-month mark in July, assuming I get clearance from my PT.
This is the first time in 22 years of running that I've had to take over a month off, so it's been a major adjustment. For me, recovery has been about focusing on what I can control to make me a better runner over the long term, so I'm doing A LOT of stationary bike for cardio and being more consistent about lower body strength training than I ever was pre-surgery. I'm also trying to pay more attention to my diet since I'm not running six days per week anymore. And I've been spending a lot more time listening to running podcasts and watching running YouTube videos which helps to keep me motivated as I plan my epic comeback!
Since I can't run for the time being, I, too, am finding that listening to running podcasts has been super helpful when I go for my daily walks. Like you, I am focusing more on my nutrition. Here's to your epic comeback!! You've got the right attitude and approach for it to happen:)
Good question, Terrell. This is the last day of my walking challenge. Give me 2 days off an!d I start another! I don't know why walking gets such a bad rap. . . it is slower, I guess. I was a Chi Runner for years, but the last two years, including a move to the hills in Oregon have taught me that there are other ways to get outdoors and enjoy being there--after all, that is why I was running! This last month of 20 minutes/morning has taught me a lot. I know I am healthier, I can breathe and I no longer wobble when walking upstairs and around the house, nor do I feel crazy when I use my walking poles to go out. A lot of it is mental which takes swallowing the old ego and going at the pace which your body is capable.
I did rowing all winter--on a machine. Machines are good when there in inclement weather outside. On the whole, they don't replace the outdoors.
I'm still planning on our meet-up this Fall. I might not be able to run, but I can walk fast. I notice most all of the races now say that walkers are welcome. Cut-off times have been extended, too. While I have no recommendations for runners, all I can say is the time old saying of "listen to your body!"
Weather right now in Eugene is beautiful, in the 70s, cool in the mornings. We should get rain this weekend. . .oh, did I say, our cherry trees are full of fruit, so are the strawberries. The plums and apples set. Life is good for now! Take Care! :)
Yes, totally! I'm actually planning on walking a good bit this summer -- especially when it gets hotter here, we kinda need a break from that. It's been actually (surprisingly) lovely here too lately, with temperatures mostly hitting only the mid-70s. Feels like fall!
Weather is supposed to get hot this June. A Heat Dome moving up from Mexico. Different --June is usually fairly cool until the middle part. Walking would be advisable. You can always break into a run if you feel like it!! :)
I’ve just been getting back to running from a hamstring injury, and I keep having to deal with the injury because I seem to be ramping up my distance too quickly. I’m back on the sidelines again, maybe just for a short time, but the hamstring is aching, and I’m concerned I might have pushed too hard. I’m waiting to see my physical therapist next week and trying not to run. So this week I’ve focused on strength training, both general and hamstring-focused, and other forms of cardio (my go-to has been stationary bike, but it’s a pale replacement for running; I do it to burn some calories and extra energy, but I don’t enjoy it like running!).
I know it's hard, but good on you for staying with the program, Chris! Have you tried biking outside? (I know a stationary bike isn't much fun; depending on what you have available to you, a regular bike could be great!)
I have certainly thought about it. I’m not the most coordinated individual, haha. I like running because it’s just me and my legs and feet, and there is not a lot of possibility of me screwing that up. If I had a machine, then there is always the possibility that I’ll run into something or something will run into me! But I had thought that I might enjoy biking outside a lot more than riding a stationary bike. Of course, just like with running, once you start a new sport, there’s all of this stuff to learn with regard to equipment. I don’t currently have a bike, and to a certain extent, I wouldn’t know where to start!
Hey Terrell, i had a bone spur removed from my toe and the recovery is going well, but still not able to run! Thankfully, i swim and bike as well; but as an additional option i have been doing the stair-master at the gym - that requires that we use similar muscles, as when running and that machine will keep anyone in shape!! Best of luck!
When I am healthy and physically thriving life seems way too short. When I am injured and physically suffering, life seems way too long. This is a perspective I have achieved after many years of prematurely returning to the trails before giving my body the chance to completely recover. So I pass this onto those much younger knowing it won’t make a difference because we runners typically only learn from our own painful experiences. 1)Life is longer than we think 2) Running for a lifetime is a worthy pursuit 3) Proper medical care, rest and nutrition will eventually heal most injuries 4) Do you want to run for life or just until the next injury sidelines you? If the former, learn patience. If the latter, continue doing what you are doing. P. S. I didn’t learn to be “patient” until I was 60 years old. Have not been injured since. Now 77…
We get more and more patient as life goes on, Clark. I turn 77 on Sunday. Had very few injuries and those were caused by me due to impatience or ego. .Just coming back with my walking. Runs are for the flat-lands, if I ever see them again. Hoping to see everyone in the Community this Fall! ;)
What a fantastic share, Clark! At 64, I have learned that I can be patient and appreciate what I CAN do as opposed to what is on hold right now. I had a rotator cuff repair on 4/18 and am in a wedge sling until the 12th of this month. I have looked online to see when it is safe to reintroduce running after this type of surgery. When I see my NP on the 12th, I will most definitely ask and then DO just what I am told. I am happy to do morning walks; Cybex for my legs; and the stationary bike. Yes, I do miss running. I look forward to doing it again when I know my tendon is ready for the "jarring."
I've been following Dimity for years (I'm a BAMR Ambassador :) ) and have really been struggling with if it's time for me to switch to hiking instead of running. I'm not quite ready to give up on running yet but I definitely need time to not have goals, just be outside for fun and give myself permission to walk when that's what I need to do.
Plantar fasciitis has prevented me from running since last August. It's hard to stop doing something you had been doing 5 days a week for 19 years. In a way, running seemed intertwined with my identity. Two programs of PT didn't help the PF. Since then, I've been bicycling and using an elliptical. I tried rowing earlier this spring. I loved being on the water and the people were all great. But if running is among the most individual of sports, rowing is among the most team-oriented. I never seemed quite in sync with the other seven rowers and reluctantly gave it up. I have continued use of a rowing machine, which is a thorough workout.
I have huge empathy for so many of the comments. Being a spectator at a race is not the same, but our encouragement and advice can mean a lot to others.
I too am injured. Hamstring tendonopathy on both sides. Got through four races, with a half being my last a month ago, and am now training differently. Not running but doing the elliptical and strength training, which I love. All the things I was doing before I knew what my injury was has ceased, because it was all contributing to the problem. I thought it was my hamstrings, so I was doing hamstring stretches, deadlifts, step ups, lunges, deep squats and rolling. There are all the things that were exacerbating the problem. I'm doing my own PT and hopefully with time and different strength training, will heal me. BUT I hear it's a long journey on this one, could be a year...
Totally hear you -- it can be a challenge to figure out exactly what's going on! I've also experienced injuries that took a long time to recover from. Hoping all goes well for you!
I appreciate this post so much! I haven't ran in 2 years now due to plantar fasciitis (it flared up and I insisted on finishing training and running a half marathon I had signed up for and am continuing to pay the consequences). I have tried just about every treatment modality out there including surgery and still have not healed. I've been desperate to find something that gives me the same outlet as running has but have yet to find it. I find that practicing yoga and meditation have provided me with some peace, but man I miss that runners high! Trying acupuncture now and remaining hopeful that I'll run again. I work in the medical field and remind myself that the ability to move my body is a gift that can be taken away at any time and I try to stay grateful 💜
Great topic Terrell and timely! Six weeks ago, I was scheduled to run the Oz Half Marathon in Olathe Kansas but ended up in urgent care with an acute grade 2 ankle sprain that happened during my shakeout run the day before the half marathon. I went down after hearing my ankle “snap” 😞! I’m grateful that it was only a grade 2 sprain and didn’t require surgery! But…I’m so frustrated with myself for not paying attention during the shakeout run! I can’t even blame it on overuse or overtraining! I felt strong with my training up to that point and was shooting for a PR in that half marathon. So, here I am in physical therapy until the end of June. I’ve been cleared to run but take it slow and easy. I did have a chance to run a 5k last Sunday which was my first run in over 5 weeks since the injury occurred and I was both happy and scared during the run. My ankle didn’t hurt during the run or afterwards which is great! However, I remember the sound of the snap and the pain endured from the injury that kept replaying in my head during that race. I’m hopeful that feeling of fear eventually goes away. I have my “big” race planned in November where I’m going to attempt qualifying for Boston. I was very close in my last marathon in December. So, I’m being patient with the recovery and rehab with my eye on the big goal in November. I just need this nagging fear to get out of my head!!! I’ll look into the book recommendation from this discussion, Rebound! Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Last July I was injured while training for the NYC marathon. We had a group of us that were going to be running it, including my husband, which promised to be a fun time all around. The injury turned out to be a torn labrum in my hip and a gluteal strain. I was lucky that the tear was small and did not require surgical repair, however the recovery period was 8 weeks of no running with a gradual return to running. This took me out of the marathon, as I chose to heed my doctor's advice and give my body the time it needed to heal. I didn't want this to turn into an injury that would require surgery or one that could permanently sideline me. I also had the London marathon on the calendar in April and decided I would be better off to rehab my injury properly and focus on getting to London healthy and whole. This was a difficult decision, but by focusing on the big picture it made it easier to take. My husband and friends still ran NYC and I still went on the trip and had a wonderful time. On marathon Sunday I was a bit sad that I wasn't getting out there with everyone else, but I knew I had made the right decision. I think focusing on the big picture, whether that be a future race or the ability to keep running, is very important to keeping things in perspective. Yes, the immediate disappointment is real but your future self will be happy that you made a good decision for them.
Can’t agree more with Debby … my best to you in your future races. Take it from someone who is the a back of the pack guy, take care of you so you can continue to get out there in all the years to come.
You have written an outstanding and honest post! Thank you for it! Two things you said really stood out to me: Focusing on the big picture; and Your future self will be happy. Wishing you all the best!!
For those who are injured and are dealing with the emotional impact, may I suggest a book? It’s called “Rebound” and it’s given me a lot of comfort when I’m injured, mainly through practical mental exercises (since we all want to still feel like we’re “doing something” when we are sidelined).
https://a.co/d/9U9xW22
Thanks for sharing this, Jason!
Happy to. I hope it helps someone. I’ve gone back to it multiple times (unfortunately). :)
So thankful I looked that up. I had trained for Half marathon for Apr, in the week I started tapering, ( 2 weeks till race) I came down with Covid... I didn't give up, thinking I maybe could do Nashville half very end of Apr. Didn't work for that, but went and did 10k... However I'm still struggling with my breathing, just reading things people were saying about the book helped me so much..... Ordering it today.. thanks for sharing
So my wife and I got COVID in August 2022 after returning from North Bend WA (Jack & Jill Half) … we had done 2 of 3 5Ks for a Disney event that raised funds for a North Florida Girl Scout Council. It took us a solid 3 weeks before we felt good enough to venture out and when we did, we walked the 3rd 5K. I have no advice on how best to get back into your stride … just know that we are all behind you in your recovery.
Thank you so much, I just turned 72 this week, and really thankful that I'm still running, albeit Slower. I'm just gonna take the running gradually and focus on good solid walking. Wanting to do a half in Sept. Yall have fun at your races......
I've been sidelined with plantar fasciitis, after running a half marathon at Marshall University. After trying everything, including podiatrists and shots, a chiropractor has finally fixed me! I would walk a lot, which was still painful, but doable; and lots of weights. I'm signing up for a 5k in August, and hopefully can build back up from there.
Ugh, I feel your pain, Mary -- I experienced my own bout with it earlier this year. Glad to hear you found a chiropractor who could fix you! Can't wait to hear how the 5K goes in August.
Thanks Terrell. I tore my calf muscle 2 months ago and am so miserable about not being able to run. That sounds like a book I need! I’m currently mountain biking but I’m not very good and it’s hard to control my dog when I’m on a bike!
When I. had Covid, I returned to running by walking slow. Then, I sped up my walking, and would add a minute or so of slow jogging every 5 minutes. Just took my time. When I had plantar fasciitis, I traded running for Elliptigo (cross between an elliptical machine and a bike), but I suppose I could have traded any low impact exercise.
My daughter, who is the one who got me into running, did her last half marathon for awhile on May 5, 13 weeks pregnant with twins. She decided to stop running for now and has switched to Orangetheory which is a cross training aerobic/strength class and she plans on switching to yoga as she progresses with the pregnancy. So many choices, but, I get it. It's hard to give up running.
Congratulations to your daughter, Maria! How exciting!
Thank you, Terrell. Yes. Very exciting.
Congratulations, Maria! The young ones will keep you going!:)
Everyone gets injured. There are infinite other distractions. So, intelligent recovery and rest. Cross training (which should be part of every training program). Read about running, watch running on the screens, watch running live, volunteer at races, talk to strangers about your running injury, create a back up hobby, "try a new plan Stan". Good luck!
I had surgery for a Haglund's deformity in mid-January, so I haven't been able to run for over four months now. I'm hoping to get back to it around the six-month mark in July, assuming I get clearance from my PT.
This is the first time in 22 years of running that I've had to take over a month off, so it's been a major adjustment. For me, recovery has been about focusing on what I can control to make me a better runner over the long term, so I'm doing A LOT of stationary bike for cardio and being more consistent about lower body strength training than I ever was pre-surgery. I'm also trying to pay more attention to my diet since I'm not running six days per week anymore. And I've been spending a lot more time listening to running podcasts and watching running YouTube videos which helps to keep me motivated as I plan my epic comeback!
Since I can't run for the time being, I, too, am finding that listening to running podcasts has been super helpful when I go for my daily walks. Like you, I am focusing more on my nutrition. Here's to your epic comeback!! You've got the right attitude and approach for it to happen:)
That’s a great way to think of it, Aaron. Epic comeback! 💪🏽
Good question, Terrell. This is the last day of my walking challenge. Give me 2 days off an!d I start another! I don't know why walking gets such a bad rap. . . it is slower, I guess. I was a Chi Runner for years, but the last two years, including a move to the hills in Oregon have taught me that there are other ways to get outdoors and enjoy being there--after all, that is why I was running! This last month of 20 minutes/morning has taught me a lot. I know I am healthier, I can breathe and I no longer wobble when walking upstairs and around the house, nor do I feel crazy when I use my walking poles to go out. A lot of it is mental which takes swallowing the old ego and going at the pace which your body is capable.
I did rowing all winter--on a machine. Machines are good when there in inclement weather outside. On the whole, they don't replace the outdoors.
I'm still planning on our meet-up this Fall. I might not be able to run, but I can walk fast. I notice most all of the races now say that walkers are welcome. Cut-off times have been extended, too. While I have no recommendations for runners, all I can say is the time old saying of "listen to your body!"
Weather right now in Eugene is beautiful, in the 70s, cool in the mornings. We should get rain this weekend. . .oh, did I say, our cherry trees are full of fruit, so are the strawberries. The plums and apples set. Life is good for now! Take Care! :)
Yes, totally! I'm actually planning on walking a good bit this summer -- especially when it gets hotter here, we kinda need a break from that. It's been actually (surprisingly) lovely here too lately, with temperatures mostly hitting only the mid-70s. Feels like fall!
Weather is supposed to get hot this June. A Heat Dome moving up from Mexico. Different --June is usually fairly cool until the middle part. Walking would be advisable. You can always break into a run if you feel like it!! :)
I’ve just been getting back to running from a hamstring injury, and I keep having to deal with the injury because I seem to be ramping up my distance too quickly. I’m back on the sidelines again, maybe just for a short time, but the hamstring is aching, and I’m concerned I might have pushed too hard. I’m waiting to see my physical therapist next week and trying not to run. So this week I’ve focused on strength training, both general and hamstring-focused, and other forms of cardio (my go-to has been stationary bike, but it’s a pale replacement for running; I do it to burn some calories and extra energy, but I don’t enjoy it like running!).
I know it's hard, but good on you for staying with the program, Chris! Have you tried biking outside? (I know a stationary bike isn't much fun; depending on what you have available to you, a regular bike could be great!)
I have certainly thought about it. I’m not the most coordinated individual, haha. I like running because it’s just me and my legs and feet, and there is not a lot of possibility of me screwing that up. If I had a machine, then there is always the possibility that I’ll run into something or something will run into me! But I had thought that I might enjoy biking outside a lot more than riding a stationary bike. Of course, just like with running, once you start a new sport, there’s all of this stuff to learn with regard to equipment. I don’t currently have a bike, and to a certain extent, I wouldn’t know where to start!
Hey Terrell, i had a bone spur removed from my toe and the recovery is going well, but still not able to run! Thankfully, i swim and bike as well; but as an additional option i have been doing the stair-master at the gym - that requires that we use similar muscles, as when running and that machine will keep anyone in shape!! Best of luck!
Lemons into lemonade … kudos to tour efforts and your recovery
When I am healthy and physically thriving life seems way too short. When I am injured and physically suffering, life seems way too long. This is a perspective I have achieved after many years of prematurely returning to the trails before giving my body the chance to completely recover. So I pass this onto those much younger knowing it won’t make a difference because we runners typically only learn from our own painful experiences. 1)Life is longer than we think 2) Running for a lifetime is a worthy pursuit 3) Proper medical care, rest and nutrition will eventually heal most injuries 4) Do you want to run for life or just until the next injury sidelines you? If the former, learn patience. If the latter, continue doing what you are doing. P. S. I didn’t learn to be “patient” until I was 60 years old. Have not been injured since. Now 77…
We get more and more patient as life goes on, Clark. I turn 77 on Sunday. Had very few injuries and those were caused by me due to impatience or ego. .Just coming back with my walking. Runs are for the flat-lands, if I ever see them again. Hoping to see everyone in the Community this Fall! ;)
Happy early birthday, Nilima!!! 🎂
Thanks, Terrell. It is a joy to be part of this Community! :)
Turn 75 in December … we seniors always seem to delete 20 or 30 years from our actual ages!
Don't we though! I sincerely hope to be back to running come Fall--even at My Age! ;)
What a fantastic share, Clark! At 64, I have learned that I can be patient and appreciate what I CAN do as opposed to what is on hold right now. I had a rotator cuff repair on 4/18 and am in a wedge sling until the 12th of this month. I have looked online to see when it is safe to reintroduce running after this type of surgery. When I see my NP on the 12th, I will most definitely ask and then DO just what I am told. I am happy to do morning walks; Cybex for my legs; and the stationary bike. Yes, I do miss running. I look forward to doing it again when I know my tendon is ready for the "jarring."
Oops Debby not Debbie. Apologies.
I've been following Dimity for years (I'm a BAMR Ambassador :) ) and have really been struggling with if it's time for me to switch to hiking instead of running. I'm not quite ready to give up on running yet but I definitely need time to not have goals, just be outside for fun and give myself permission to walk when that's what I need to do.
Plantar fasciitis has prevented me from running since last August. It's hard to stop doing something you had been doing 5 days a week for 19 years. In a way, running seemed intertwined with my identity. Two programs of PT didn't help the PF. Since then, I've been bicycling and using an elliptical. I tried rowing earlier this spring. I loved being on the water and the people were all great. But if running is among the most individual of sports, rowing is among the most team-oriented. I never seemed quite in sync with the other seven rowers and reluctantly gave it up. I have continued use of a rowing machine, which is a thorough workout.
I have huge empathy for so many of the comments. Being a spectator at a race is not the same, but our encouragement and advice can mean a lot to others.
Lately I havent been running much because of a neuroma. Anybody else had this issue? If so how did you deal with it?
I’m good right now but I’ve definitely been there hope you all feel better
I too am injured. Hamstring tendonopathy on both sides. Got through four races, with a half being my last a month ago, and am now training differently. Not running but doing the elliptical and strength training, which I love. All the things I was doing before I knew what my injury was has ceased, because it was all contributing to the problem. I thought it was my hamstrings, so I was doing hamstring stretches, deadlifts, step ups, lunges, deep squats and rolling. There are all the things that were exacerbating the problem. I'm doing my own PT and hopefully with time and different strength training, will heal me. BUT I hear it's a long journey on this one, could be a year...
Totally hear you -- it can be a challenge to figure out exactly what's going on! I've also experienced injuries that took a long time to recover from. Hoping all goes well for you!
I appreciate this post so much! I haven't ran in 2 years now due to plantar fasciitis (it flared up and I insisted on finishing training and running a half marathon I had signed up for and am continuing to pay the consequences). I have tried just about every treatment modality out there including surgery and still have not healed. I've been desperate to find something that gives me the same outlet as running has but have yet to find it. I find that practicing yoga and meditation have provided me with some peace, but man I miss that runners high! Trying acupuncture now and remaining hopeful that I'll run again. I work in the medical field and remind myself that the ability to move my body is a gift that can be taken away at any time and I try to stay grateful 💜
Acupuncture was the cure for my plantar fasciitis. After a year of PT and cortisone a couple of weeks of acupuncture I was back running again.
So true about runners high, Liz. Nothing quite like it!
Great topic Terrell and timely! Six weeks ago, I was scheduled to run the Oz Half Marathon in Olathe Kansas but ended up in urgent care with an acute grade 2 ankle sprain that happened during my shakeout run the day before the half marathon. I went down after hearing my ankle “snap” 😞! I’m grateful that it was only a grade 2 sprain and didn’t require surgery! But…I’m so frustrated with myself for not paying attention during the shakeout run! I can’t even blame it on overuse or overtraining! I felt strong with my training up to that point and was shooting for a PR in that half marathon. So, here I am in physical therapy until the end of June. I’ve been cleared to run but take it slow and easy. I did have a chance to run a 5k last Sunday which was my first run in over 5 weeks since the injury occurred and I was both happy and scared during the run. My ankle didn’t hurt during the run or afterwards which is great! However, I remember the sound of the snap and the pain endured from the injury that kept replaying in my head during that race. I’m hopeful that feeling of fear eventually goes away. I have my “big” race planned in November where I’m going to attempt qualifying for Boston. I was very close in my last marathon in December. So, I’m being patient with the recovery and rehab with my eye on the big goal in November. I just need this nagging fear to get out of my head!!! I’ll look into the book recommendation from this discussion, Rebound! Thank you and have a wonderful weekend!
Rooting for your recovery so you can once again get them treasured highs.
Cheering you on BIG TIME, Donna! You've got this!!!!!!!!!