two steps forward, one back! : Just done session... - Couch to 5K

Couch to 5K

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two steps forward, one back!

HomeschooledBadger profile image

Just done session 1 of week 5 and all ok.

Had a break for a few weeks due to family illness so repeating week 5 and also developed foot pain in joint of big toe, only started after the first 20 mins run. Saw doc who recommended ibuprofen gel, think it might be bit of osteoarthritis which I've developed in hands... Really want to carry on as find it so beneficial for mental and physical health but at same time don't want to be doing any damage. Anyone in similar position or can offer any advice? Much appreciated!

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HomeschooledBadger
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Oldfloss profile image
OldflossAdministratorGraduate

Hello again.... just checking that you read the How to Run C25K pinned post and that you have been following the guidance, (I expect you have...:)

The correct shoe and socks are really essential . Our feet are bearing the brunt of this:)

The pain could just be related to the running, we do get new, and weird aches and pains for many reasons. Using bits we never used in a certain way before

We are not experts so the advice from those that are is always valuable. But you could try some simple exercise for those feet and toes and there are loads!

The S and F forum has lots of links... here is one I posted a while back;

healthunlocked.com/strength......

Toe creeps are especially useful , ( I have a not very bendy right big toe), and I have a leg and foot and ankle routine every morning... done to the tune of Head and shoulders, knees and toes...! I am 72 next Saturday ! I also have osteoarthritis in my right hand...and shoulder.

Maybe give these a go and hopefully with the cream and some exercise things will start to ease. There is no reason, unless your GP gave you different advice, why you cannot keep running .

Keep us posted please:)

HomeschooledBadger profile image
HomeschooledBadger in reply to Oldfloss

Thanks, so helpful 🙂just re read the post you suggested. Just realise I've been heel first so will correct this and will look at the exercises. Doc said to keep running if possible for all the benefits it brings. Will also get some new shoes as mine a bit worn and will aim to run in the park on softer ground when possible now the nights are a bit lighter. So fingers crossed this will all help 🤞!

grumpyoldgirl profile image
grumpyoldgirlGraduate

Well done on the run! I've got OA in my hands but it's not affecting my feet yet. Is there anything about your running style that you can change to ease the pressure on your toes? Maybe a sport physio could give you some pointers. Shoes, socks? ( More cushioned, different heel height? A lower heel might reduce the impact on your toes)

I wear compression gloves when my hands are bad, so socks with a bit of compression may help. Or maybe the socks with toes in will suit you better. Injinji I think they're called.

My instinct to keep running is the same as yours, I don't want to end up too stiff to move.

Keep up with the gel, use it for at least a week for the anti-inflammatory effects.

The medical advice I was given was, don't do the things that trigger it. Well, that's not very practical advice for either hands or feet! There's a charity with helpful information online - Versus arthritis?

HomeschooledBadger profile image
HomeschooledBadger in reply to grumpyoldgirl

Hi, yes that charity is great. I follow their exercises for hands. And you're right very difficult to not do things that trigger it, I'm a practical person and loving using my hands for various projects and crafts ... But do rein it in and pace myself more if they start to twinge.Thanks for suggestions 😊

nowster profile image
nowsterGraduate

Another thing to check is whether your shoes are a little on the small side. Your forefoot area spreads under the load of landing when running so, unless you're wearing weird shoes like me, you might benefit from going up a half size from shoes you'd walk in.

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