Settling in on the IC...

[Ucandothis]

Really cross thati'm not getting any better. Physio thinks it is all to do with my back and I am even aggravating it when on my real-life couch. But as she told me to rest as much as possible, it is hard to know what to do with my body!

Apparently I have made one leg longer than the other due to poorly aligned pelvis. That has led to foot/ankle issues and swelling of ankle. Sounds very plausible, but it isn't improving - in fact the less I do the more I lock up all over, resulting in aches and pains from neck to thigh!

I am lucky that I can do some work from home, but have had to cancel some work so have lost money. As every day goes by I am getting more frightened of ever returning to running as I can't handle being incapacitated like this again.

Yes, am wallowing in self pity and need stern words from somebody who has felt the same and got back out there!

[Feelingsilly]

That could be my exact post from last week! I twisted my pelvis 4 years ago from a car accident with a naughty coach but, it does get better.

Core strength improving is what I need to work more on- it would mean that when you go running your core would tighten up to protect your spinal column so your pelvic/thigh/calve/neck/foot muscles don't think they have to do it instead. It won't help your foot for now but might help long term.

Don't overdo it too much, it is a slow process, but you could do any yoga/core strengthening exercises in the meantime so that when your physio gives you the green light to run again, you'll have an extra layer of strength there to protect your back. Hope you get better soon, it's a miserable feeling.

[Ucandothis Graduate in reply to Feelingsilly]

Thanks - I did yoga weekly until I moved 3 months ago and I think that may have contributed as I had lost some flexibility. I also lengthened my stride and did lots of hill work (I live at the top of a steep hill, so it is difficult not to!). Thanks for your encouragement.

[TurboTortoise Graduate]

Most people have one leg slightly longer than the other, I do for one - and the repetitive nature of running amplifies any imbalance and leads to all sorts of annoying painful stuff. Don't rest TOO much, but do work on your strength and flexibility - yoga, Pilates, core work, all really do make a difference. I'm currently recovering from a fracture and know exactly what you mean when you get the knock-on effects of nose to tail pain everywhere else as a side effect of an injury. Who knows when I'll be able to run again but Pilates (I'm lucky to have found a very good instructor) and my own exercise regime is keeping me sane and really helping me heal and get my strength back. Everything's going to be OK!!!

Oh and PS don't lengthen your running stride, but do up your cadence. It really will help.

[Oldfloss Administrator Graduate]

Listen to TurboTortoise , she really does have first hand knowledge on this and has made amazing progress!

I am not in any position to advise, but know, if on the IC, I seem to seize up if I rest too much! (Old age). Yoga and Pilates.. brilliant for staying sharp and supple... and relaxed too

[Ucandothis Graduate]

Thanks - I am at physio tomorrow and wil ask for a full exercise programme to get me supple (ish) again. Thanks for the supportive words. Much appreciated.