Running That First Mile
>> Tuesday, May 15, 2012 –
Books,
life and times,
running,
Shirley
It's been exactly 3 months to the date since I had my knee surgery to reconstruct the ACL I tore in January.
And while I was really, really, really slow (probably 15 minutes), I ran my first mile this morning.
Four weeks ago, I couldn't get out of the cul-de-sac without experiencing a sharp pain down the side of my knee. Since then I focused on increasing my knee's range of motion, strengthening the quad muscles that shrank as a result of the injury and improving my sense of balance on that leg. That's not to say I am 100% pain free - there's a little bit of discomfort, but not like before.
I also switched to a barefoot style running shoe:
This is a bit of a departure for me - I've always been a proponent of well cushioned running shoes. I'm always aware of "how many miles" I've logged in my shoes, making sure I change them every 500 miles. When my hubby bought a pair of Vibram Five Finger shoes, I thought that he was crazy. But last year I started to experience a bit of plantar fasciitis (pain in the bottom of my foot and heel) and read a little bit about "barefoot running". I adjusted my stride ever so slightly, from a direct heel strike to more of a "flat footed" strike. No more foot pain.
And as I was recovering from my ACL surgery, I read this book:
I decided to buy a pair of the Merrell Barefoot Pace Glove shoes above and so far, so good. The last time I attempted to run with my normal running shoes was less than two weeks ago and I experienced the same knee pain down the side of my leg. So for now, I'll claim a small victory and hopefully, continue to build up some more mileage and speed.
I'm glad you're on the go, it feels great to run (even if it's a little slow now in the beginning for you)!
Good for you Shirley - I am so glad you are getting back to something you love :)
My daughter (the equestrian) saw a chiropractor about foot/ankle pain from a twisted ankle a year ago in PE -- he talked to us about being barefooted - helps build up her muscles as opposed to those really structured supportive paddock boots - they act like a brace. Anyway long story short - she is supposed to go barefooted as much as possible (& do a few exercises too). Good luck the running - I chalk that sport up to one of those things I'll never do (old shin splints) -- just can't/won't.