One Of These Legs Is Not Like The Other

I had my second physical therapy session today. Something I have suspected for years has now been officially confirmed: I have a leg length discrepancy. My right leg is about a centimeter longer than my left. It seems to be my tibia that's actually longer, thus also shifting everything above it up a little, including my right hip. I'm not entirely sure of the implications, but it was suggested that I add a very minimal OTC insert to my left shoe and walk around with it for several days. The therapist said I may experience some soreness in my knees, hips and back initially, since my body has been used to compensating for the difference. I've already added an old insert and it does feel odd, like my left side is too high now. It'll take some getting used to. We'll see if this becomes a permanent addition or not.

As for the heel itself, it felt much better today. A few days ago, I did yard work and the heel was really aggravated. Today, I mowed the lawn and it felt great - so much so that I even hinted to my wife that I'd like to run soon. She shot me down straight away. She's right, though (isn't she always?)

After my PT session, my heel is once again sore - probably from the manipulation and massaging. But the swelling has gone down significantly (compared to the photo I recently posted).

And I think I'm finally having a positive mindset about it. I found three "pluses" regarding my situation:

1.  I'll have time to truly recover from my first marathon (I had started pushing again too soon, I think)
2. I get to hop back on the bike, which was a great cross-training tool last year as I got back into running
3. I have more time and energy for some much-needed strength work (upper body and core especially)

And, now, one BIG "minus":
Me arse be growin'! Yes, I've managed to put on 4 lbs. since my marathon 3 1/2 weeks ago. My appetite has not only NOT decreased since I've been sidelined, it has INCREASED. I don't know if I'm making up for a calorie deficit when I was training hard or what...but what has always been a problem while running (keeping enough weight ON) suddenly is a problem no longer. I either need to start riding my bike...a lot...or I need to keep the refrigerator door shut! Oh well, it's nice to know I didn't have a tapeworm, I guess.

Thursday, I'll hopefully walk on the pressure sensitive pad to see what my feet do upon impact. I may also be videotaped while running on a treadmill. More later.