First run after being sidelined by PF

Plantar fasciitis first became an issue three years ago when I was training for my first ten-miler. The podiatrist suggested I try the firm Spenco inserts available at running stores to support my high arches. Problem solved.

Forward to 2007, and I was right on schedule to meet my 1000-mile goal. Then PF began to flare up again during the mileage ramp-up for the Columbus Marathon. The arch pain traveled to the inside of my right heel, like a burning hot poker stabbing me with each step. Rolling my foot to the side eased the pain, but altered my stride. Back to the podiatrist, this time to be fitted for custom orthotics. I could walk better, but I still had that 22-miler to do. I got through the run by rolling my foot outward with every step and lying to my Running Buddies about how my foot really felt.

I limped for 2 days (despite Ice & Ibuprofen) and began to really worry about how I was going to finish a marathon in three weeks. I didn't run at all that week, but kept up my cardio by doing the elliptical for 45mins four times that week. We ran 12 miles the next weekend, I limped the next 2 days, worried some more, went back to the elliptical.

The last long run before Taper Week starts is "only" 8 miles and traditionally an exciting day for a training group (second only to the day of the 22-miler). But for me: more heel pain, more worry. On Tuesday, the podiatrist injected my heel with a combination anesthetic/steroid. I walked out of the office with tears in my eyes, 90% pain-free for the first time in two months!

(more)