I have a few recurring foot injuries that crop up from time to time. I’ve never been officially diagnosed or sought professional help because, frankly, I don’t know where to go (or if my insurance will cover it) and both problems typically go away with rest…which would indicate that they are overuse injuries.
One is a morton’s neuroma (my self-diagnosis) and involves an incredibly sharp/pinching pain between the third and fourth toes on one foot. I notice that this happens most often if I wear shoes that are too tight for me. It typically takes a day or two to subside.
The other recurring injury is a pain in my inside arch of the foot — something I’m suffering through right now. I felt it coming on 1/2 way through a 6 mile run on Sunday (following a 10-miler on Saturday).
Googling around and checking my symptoms would lead me to believe it’s posterial tibial tendonitis. It calls for rest, ice and compression as a first step in treatment — that’s always worked in the past. It’s hard for me to do nothing (and I mean nothing…aerobics hurts, walking hurts, standing hurts) for days on end, but…with complete rest it usually goes away within a week.
I’m hoping the cause of the PTT is wearing my high heel boots I’ve come to love this winter. I’m praying it’s not something more…or a more permanent problem.
For now, I rest….restlessly.
Heather, you need to go to a podiatrist (foot doctor). I had to do that a few years ago after I developed Achilles tendinitis training for the Cleveland Marathon. I now wear custom-made inserts in my running shoes. Best decision I ever made for running was to see the podiatrist. My foot problems are a thing of the past. The solution also eliminated pain in my calves and knees. Insurance will most likely pay for any treatment, doctor visit you may need. It’s best to treat stuff while it’s small rather than wait until more serious and chronic problems develop. Better to do it now in the cold winter than warm spring/summer/fall!
I have a card that the physical therapist gave me to go to a podiatrist to get orthotics made. I haven’t called yet…ugh…you know how it is…so many appointments, meetings…ugh…and only so many hours in the day (and so many stories to write!)
And…I debated on whether it was worth it, but…you’ve sealed the deal. I’m going to call him next week. Thanks, John.
I have to tell you…my running has been suffering lately…a series of colds, this plantar fasciitis problem….general annoyance at winter running. Ugh! I hope to find my running mojo again soon!