I woke up this morning and everything changed. Just 17 days from my Ironman, a nagging injury I've been battling for over 1.5 years came back in a huge way. I was unable to put any weight on my left foot due to severe plantar fasciitis pain. Walking was nearly impossible and completing an Ironman seemed unfathomable.
I spent every moment of free time looking for solutions. The last time my PF became acute I ended up taking a four-month break from running. Since I need to be able to run a marathon in a little over two weeks, I don't have the luxury of time. I had an ART session, which helped tremendously, but unfortunately the relief only lasted a couple hours. I iced whenever possible and took a high dose of ibuprofen. I talked to my coach and ART therapist about what to do right now to make this better. I stopped and bought a Strassburg Sock on the way home. And I got the name of a podiatrist to inject my foot with cortisone as an absolute last resort.
I'd be lying if I said I wasn't emotionally crushed and disappointed. I spent the better part of the day fighting back tears and finally lost that battle somewhere around Wall Street while on my train ride home. I'm trying not to dwell on the negativity, but rather focus my energy on what I can do to get better and make it to the start on September 13. But I also need to be allowed to be upset. I have trained for nearly 30 weeks and was on track for what should have been a great race. Now I'm wondering if I can even finish.
The good news is that I was able to run 15 miles on this yesterday relatively pain-free. If I am incredibly careful and aggressive in the treatment I have a strong chance of being able to race somewhat normally. I need to be prepared for severe pain and discomfort but I know I can handle that. On the flip side, a few days off running and focus on the treatments might get me back on track. Only time will tell.
Oh No!!! So sorry Kristin. But it sounds like you got it under control, or at least a have real plan in place to deal with it. You'll be able to start, and have a good race, I just know it.
ReplyDeleteJust remember what you just recently posted...you have come though so much and have amassed a life changing amount of fitness/courage/determination, and no one, not even an injury can take that away from you.
Best of luck, and feel better!
PS you are not the first person to cry on the subway, especially at wall street ;-)
Hang in there. Try to focus on anything positive. Hope you pull through, see you in a couple of weeks.
ReplyDeleteYou have every right to be upset! Crying on the subway sucks (we've all been there) but you need to let your self feel everything that is building up.
ReplyDeleteI really hope you are feeling better soon!!
Best of luck! I'll say a little prayer for a speedy recovery!
ReplyDeleteIt's a phrase we all hate to hear..."Everything happens for a reason." Right now we are not sure why your PF has flared up, but we must have faith that it is part of a grander scheme. Take this opportunity to reflect on how far you have come - you are one incredible woman! Trust that your body will come through for you on race day! Sending you positive vibes for a great day!
ReplyDelete1st off - I know someone who did IMOO 2 years ago and had severe PF for the latter 1/3 of her training. She took some time off running and did IM in 12 hours or so.
ReplyDelete2nd - are you sure you don't need new shoes???? That's when my PF starts to twinge. Whether the miles say I need them or not - I go out and get a new pair. I know it's late in the game to do it, but maybe???
-g (robert's wife)
That really stinks about your foot, but I am sure you are doing everything right and will be just fine on race day. I am sure you will be able to overcome it. It's amazing what your mind can do!! I do know how you are feeling though since I think my ITB is giving me some pain late in my training. It's no Ironman, but it may keep me from completing my half marathon!
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