It's weird- normally I would be totally devastated by this news, but I feel fine!
Perhaps it's because I don't have a race. Perhaps it's because I'm so relieved that I don't have a stress fracture and two weeks feels like nothing compared to 4 months. Perhaps it's because I have been feeling so sore and run down that having someone tell me that I have to take time off takes the pressure off of me- I don't feel like I'm just "wussing out".
Yesterday I had not only one, but two Physical Therapists working on me trying to get me back in running order. For TWO HOURS they shocked, poked, stretched, massaged and essentially attacked both IT bands, both shins (with extra attention on my left), both hips, my right hip flexor, and my knee caps.
In short- I'm a mess.
I plan on cross training on the elliptical some, but mostly I'm going to be doing lots and lots and lots of strength training. I'm going to definitely be a STRONGER runner when I get back at it.
I'm so glad I decided to go in. My body needed it. If you are feeling aches and pains that are nagging and concerning- don't ignore it. Go see a physical therapist. You won't regret it, promise.
(And this is coming from someone who doesn't like to spend a dime on anything- let alone seeing a doctor.).
After talking about my form and shoe options, my PT is encouraging me to go with minimalist shoes. I've had the New Balance 10's for awhile now and absolutely love them. In a few weeks I am going to transition to running solely in those. My form is better when I run in these, and until I learn to run correctly, I'm just going to continue to get injured in normal trainers.
Time for a new pair, though. I'm stoked on these:
If you couldn't run for two weeks, what would you spend your time doing instead?
12 comments:
I'm so glad you went in too! It's better to go in early and only have to stop for two weeks than to get a stress fracture. You're awesome!
I ran in minimalist shoes for awhile, they improved my form a lot. I the end I switched back to regular trainers, but kept the form, and I have been much more injury free since. Though I've also gotten a lot better about preventative maintenance, so it's hard to say what to contribute my healthy year to.
SO Happy to hear that it was not a stress fracture!! 2 weeks will FLY by quickly and will give you some needed running rest.
I also wanted to thank you for encouraging me to go to the PT. Like you, I HATE spending money... let alone on doctors. But I went, and actually had a pelvic bone shift that he had to put back into place! Basically, I wouldn't have gotten better if it was not from my awesome Utah Friend. THANKS lady:)
Boo to the run ban, but yay for your positive attitude about it. You're so right, you'll come back a stronger runner!
Just recently I spent a few weeks only cycling instead of running. A nice change, but I missed running! Really looking forward to info on your IT band stretches. My hips have recently started hurting for the first time in my life!
Let me know if you like the minimus..i use the nike free, but i am looking for something new.
I'd love to hear more about your IT rehab... mine have been a little tight these last few days... boo. I guess I should go see a PT, but it's hard for me to get over the fact that I actually have to pay for one... when all I used to have to do was walk into the training room and that was that.
The shoe looks really cool... I'd be interested to hear if that helps also... I'm not much of a minimalist shoe advocate, unless I'm racing, but mostly that's because I don't know a lot about it, so it'd be interesting to hear how that works out for you, also.
You know you need the time off when they tell you and you don't want to punch the guy's face in. I'm glad you're not super bummed about it... and honestly 2 weeks isn't long. So that's good. If I couldn't run for two weeks, I'd probably waste more time cross training... :)
I'm so impressed by your outlook on this no running directive. But better safe than sorry.
Wow! This is awesome - not your injury, but that you have a clear plan on how to rehab yourself, become a stronger runner and get your body to do all the things you push it to do! Great job - can't wait to stay updated on your progress! :)
I would eat a lot...a LOT!
And mope...and probably craft.
I have a lot of projects that are waiting.
Awesome attitude about this my friend. I tend to agree with your perspective in that possibly this is happening for a reason and there is something beneficial to be learned from it. I am excited that you are learning and finding ways to prevent injury in the future.
I know this is a broken record but I would definitely put in some quality lifting time. squats, lunges, anything that will strengthen those leg muscles. Does your gym up there offer pump? You may not be able to do all the moves but it is a great full body weight class.
I am so sorry about this situation but you are right...it isn't a stress fracture and you don't have an upcoming race. If you ever need to vent to anyone, I am your woman. LOVE the shoes, I might have to get them too. TV, cooking, swimming, biking, weights for 2 minutes and sleeping.....my schedule for most of last year;)
I hope your recovery is going smoothly and that you will be feeling back at 100% soon!
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