Monday, June 8, 2009

Long Week

I have been battling this foot problem for many weeks now. The week after training camp I just kept running through it and it eventually was causing too much pain. Even worse it was causing issues with my right knee and left calf from changing my stride. Had 2 horrible runs last weekend and decided to lay off the foot for a while.
It was a long week w/o being able to run at all. I did get in about 125 miles on the stationary bike throughout the week but it was a real battle considering it was supposed to be a big week before taper time. I went to the Dr on Thursday and a Podiatrist on Friday. He gave me a cortisone shot and both Dr's agreed it was Morton's Nueroma in the right foot. It was the first time I have gone to a Dr for a running related injury. I really didn't have a choice though, there is now way I could completely stop running for 4 weeks before Western States. I also got some prescription meds for inflammation.
I was glad the Dr's were very understanding of what I was up against. I told them I just needed to figure out how to get through Western States then I will take off however long is needed to recover. I am going back in 2 weeks to get another dose of cortisone the night before we leave for Cali. Hopefully it will be able to get me through.
Yesterday I finally gave in and went out for a leisurely 3hr heat run about 1pm. I stayed in town but ran mostly in in the grass along the sidewalks and paved trails. The foot was hurting but I am just going to have to deal with it and try not to overdo it. Still messing around with insole modifications trying to figure what works best. I felt some what dead legged for most of the run but it felt good to run none the less. This morning I went up to the gym and did 1 hr on the treadmill with an extra long sleeve shirt on for a little more heat time.
One the positive side I have been doing a stellar job on my weight and am about right where I want to be. Ate super clean the last 10 days and I am about as lean as I can get without loosing more muscle. Hopefully everything will work out for me, I am really trying to keep a positive attitude while getting through this foot issue. My main concern is finding the best way to take the pressure off my Nueroma while not causing any blisters and other foot issues at the same time, still a work in progress.
Anyways, I am going to try and get in a decent week and go with a shorter taper of 10-12 days since I didn't run for 6 days last week. If the foot bothers me too much that will change but I hope for the best.

8 comments:

Thomas Bussiere said...

Looks like you got some great training in before the foot became an issue. I have no doubt you will do well at WS. I’ve heard of runners forced to taper longer then planned and it turned out to be their best performance.

Gabe said...

thanks for the positves Thomas..it is appreciated.

Cynical Dirt Doll said...

I agree with Thomas.. I've heard the same stories. I'm crossing my fingers for you Gabe that the shots work and come June 27th that race day magic takes over and you feel fabulous and cross the finish line feeling great.

Anonymous said...

Hang in there buddy. I know its the shits but things happen for a reason. Have you tried getting on an eliptical trainer or bike yet? I know its not running but you would be able to maintain your level of fitness and maybe improve it some. Without putting all the pounding on your foot. Just an idea. If that doesn't work then I'll be more than happy to head out to Cali with you and run in your place. LOL... Just try not to worry about it too much. It is what it is. Worrying isn't going to make it better. Stay positive and focused brother. Do that and you'll make it to the finish line.

Lee said...

Screw the foot, run it with your heart. You are an animal!

Darin said...

You'll do great, you have already got all the hard work in the bank rest, recover and get it done. Rest just might be what you need.
I know it sucks not being able to do what you think you need to do.

The Stretch Doc said...

Hope the foot is feeling better..
have you looked into Active Release Technique from Sports Chiropractors in your area? www.activerelease.com

Its really a great muscle and nerve technique.

You can do it, hang in there!

rockon`

Anonymous said...

I know its scary being at a standstill during peak training time. But what can be done, you're doing. Once that race gets going, nothing is going to stop you.