I just returned for my monthly check-in with my sports med doc. Since I saw him last month, I've been doing 20 minute spins on my Schwinn Airdyne two to three times per week (along with weight training). The way my heel has felt after those rides varies. Some days it's fine. Other times, it aches for a couple of days. This is one of those days (I rode yesterday). The doctor didn't seem alarmed by that. He said that sometimes it takes time for the injured area to adapt to even light training. He was pleased with what he saw (no swelling), so the plan until next month's visit is to continue with my current approach, along with adding in a weekly swim (pushing lightly off the walls with my good foot). No walking on the treadmill yet.
We discussed the time table for this process and he said the key word was patience. He liked my analogy of how someone doesn't get fat overnight, and consequently don't lose the weight overnight. He said the fact that I've basically had this injury for 7 months and continued to run on it for a while means it's going to improve very gradually, assuming it does improve. If it's still about the same by next month, we'll stay in a holding pattern. If it does improve, we'll move to the next phase of his plan — strengthening (and stretching). If it gets worse (and if it bothers me even during daily activities), then we'll go the surgery route.
No matter the course, this is going to be a long-term rehab process. I guess it's a good thing I didn't make “RUN LIKE A MANIAC” my phrase for 2011. It looks like it could be quite some time before I run again. I will, though. Count on it.
And I promise I don't hate all of you while you're out running, pain-free, training for your goal races. I'll just pretend I'm looking at me as I see you running by (especially if you're running REALLY fast, with perfect form).
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ReplyDeleteI feel like we are in very similar boats Colin. I am headed back to the Dr. today, but I already know he is going to play the "patience" card. For me, 4 months is pretty much the most patient I've ever been for anything (aside from my daughter being born). Needless to say I'm not handling it well. Also, I think I am gaining weight overnight. Every night. Hang in there buddy.
ReplyDeleteBest of luck in your rehab. I've got some similar issues and just got off a long layoff myself. Have they recommended topical anti-inflammatory products? My podiatrist did and they seem to help since the heel doesn't get much natural circulation.
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear it is still moving in the right direction! I hope it continues to move that way (only faster!)
ReplyDeleteGlad to hear progress is still moving forward, even if it's slow. BTW I like your balance approach to next year. That's my goal too, more balanced fitness focusing on functional fitness and lots of different cross training.
ReplyDeleteWhat if we're running kinda fast with imperfect form, then would you hate us?
ReplyDeleteReminds me of a song "the waiting is the hardest part." Best of luck to you with the rehab.
ReplyDeleteThanks everyone. Not being a very patient guy who LOVES to run is proving to be a challenging scenario.
ReplyDelete(Chris, I could never hate you...even if you BQ circles around me while landing only on your midfoot)
I think it's important that your keeping active and not going completely crazy. I think every step no matter how big or small is a step in the right direction. Keep movin'
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