This July I started running again, after about a twelve year hiatus (I'm
almost 32). I was only up to 3 miles a day 4 times a week when I
developed excruciating pain in both of my arches. The pain starts just
in front of my heels and extends into the arch a little ways. It's
worse in the morning and lessens as the day goes on. I switched running
shoes, bought over the counter arch supports for my other shoes, and
stopped running for about a month. The problem seemed to get better so
I resumed running, only to have it reoccur now that I'm up to 5 miles.
It's not quite as bad as it was, so I've been trying to run through it.
Yesterday I mentioned the problem to my chiropractor, who says I have
plantar fasciitis. So this isn't going away if I just grit my teeth and
keep running, is it? What can I do to fix this problem? I had high
hopes of joining a marathon training group in January, and am concerned
that my plans might be foiled.
Thanks for your help!
Noelle:
All is not lost! There is a life after PF! Even bilateral PF!
First, OTC devices are rarely successful in the long term. Second, A custom
device, with a PF accomodation is very helpful in many cases. Third, Your shoe
selection might help, and fourth, a night splint for a period of time might help
you overcome the morning reinjury that occurs as you step onto your foot first
thing in the morning with a tightened PF.
Finally, Cortsone shots are another last ditch treatment that is available.
So try these different ideas, and join your marathon training group!
Neil
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