Not been here for a while but I need help....

[Pete1w]

I've been running for quite a while after completing the C25K course. I've suffered many injuries which are so frustrating but I've tried to be sensible and thankfully I've always recovered. I'm a casual runner, not really interested in races or PB,s but run for weight control and because I enjoy it. Recently I was diagnosed with arthritis in my left big toe. I can run a steady 5 or 6 K but anything beyond that and the pain is really bad ( 8 or a 9 out of 10 ). I'm guessing the cold weather doesn't help but is there anyone out there who suffers the same and can give some advice? I ran a 10 K on Sunday which was Ok ( 5/6 out of 10 ) but I did a reasonably quick 5 K yesterday and the toe is still painful. HELP PLEASE.....

[nowster Graduate]

All I know is that weather can affect arthritis.

Your best bet is to rest it at the moment, maybe some ibuprofen (if that works for you).

Seek medical help if it doesn't get any better. You shouldn't run in pain.

[bobthebuilder]

Hi Pete1w, I to have arthritis in both big toe joints, so I fully understand your pain and frustration. My right toe started over twenty years ago, and has more or less fused so is manageable with the right shoes. My left toe has just joined the party, and is very painful if mistreated! For me, running is less painful than walking, I buy the most cushioned running shoes I can find, for me Hoka are perfect when my toes are having a flare up, or I use Brookes when they are just gently moaning!! For walking I use shoes/boots with as stiff a sole as possible and a good supportive insole. On the whole, this manages my pain well, I do resort to ibuprofen, and my physio has me doing Pilates without wearing shoes to keep all the muscles in my feet and lower leg moving as normally as possible. He also says to keep moving, you can't make it worse, but you need to manage your pain. It may be worth your while visiting a physio and or a podiatrist, they have definitely kept me moving!!

[Freecloud Graduate]

I don't know but maybe something with a carbon plate might do the job. Reason I say that is the sole is stiff and can't really bend. I recently got a pair of Nike Zoom 5 on a sale from the Nike site and they cannot be bent at all. The good thing about Nike is that you can send them back free of charge if not suitable.

[Pete1w Graduate]

Thanks all. The consultant told me to carry on as I can't make it any worse. Also to wear stuff shoes. I've just bought some Kinvara 13 which are reasonably stiff but might have to look at other alternatives. I think a couple of weeks rest might be in order and then just stick to gentle 5/6 KM runs for the foreseeable future.