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Injured or Limited Runners

Randy M.

Minimalist or more support?

posted over 2 years ago | Report

What do you think? Most sports doc's prescribe orthotics, heel inserts, night splints, etc. for Plantar Fasciitus. However many including many well known DM and Twitter runners advocate a minimalist approach, even barefoot, b/c it stretches the tendon and strengthens the feet. I am in process of trying both. Thoughts?

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  Eddie M.

  A minimalist approach worked for me, but an individual's biomechanics can vary. I tried stretching before getting out of bed or if I was stationary for too long. I also shortened my running and walking stride to distribute the force over the whole foot more evenly. This caused me to have more of a midfoot strike, which did not cause me any new problems, but may cause problems in others (calves, hips due to altered gait). I also avoided hills and speedwork. Be patient, yet determined. I think rest with a slow build up will help for the long haul.

  posted over 2 years ago | Report

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  Randy M.

  Thanks Eddie. I appreciate the input. Hills seemed to be what made my condition worse, when I had not been used to them. I had already adjusted/improved my foot strike. I am now stretching, etc. Patience. I need patience. The other responses came to my inbox but Coach Jeff K. said something to the effect that no race is worth risking long term injury. I know this but got to remember. Thanks!

  posted over 2 years ago | Report

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