I’m starting to worry a little bit. We are in our sixth week of training and the back of my ankle has begun to throb. I dismissed the pain for the last three weeks, assuming it would disappear. Unfortunately, the pain has gradually gotten worse.
Last Saturday we ran 10 miles. That’s the most we have ever run in our lives. However, I think it only added to the pain in my leg. I fear it may be tendonitis, which is my biggest fear. Ever since I tore ligaments in my right ankle a couple of years ago I have dealt with tightness in my ankle. Luckily I went to physical therapy for two months following my injury and I assumed it was much stronger now. I feel, though, that my previous injury is directly related to the pain. The funny thing is I can run faster than I could a year ago. The pain usually subsides about five minutes into my run, but when I stop it slowly creeps up again. I wanted nothing to derail me from my training program, but it’s looking like I may have to take a week off and see how my ankle responds. That’s hard for me to even think about and harder for me to even attempt.
Running is my escape and it is something that I need in my life right now. I have been so excited since we started training for the Rock n’ Roll marathon in San Antonio that I have been willing to fight through my shin splints and knee pain, but I know this is far more serious. I fear that I may tear my Achilles tendon, which I believe I came close to during my recovery from my torn ligaments. That lingering pain is a voice that tells me to slow down. I just don’t know how I can do that. I never thought I would be a runner, not like this. I have surpassed all my expectations and I expect to continue to do so. I know, however, that I must remain healthy and listen to my body. It is just becoming increasingly difficult as the half marathon approaches. It is about a month away now and I want to be more than ready for it. I want it to be the beginning of many races to run in the future, but today is just one of those days where the future seems so far away. I guess for now all I can do is pray and hope.
Running On Empty 
Hi! I just found your blog from your comment on a Freshly Pressed blog- love how that happens! Anyway, my sister, sister in law and myself are training for our first half coming up 10/30. My SIL has had the same injuries you describe – and I’m convinced it’s because she overheard some bad advice at our first 5k in April- “land with a heel strike” and started forcing herself to run that way. I thought I’d throw that out there in case you were stretching your stride too far for speed and landing on your heel- sending the shock up your shins and to your knees.
Her injuries have really hampered her long run training and instead of looking forward to the accomplishment, she’s worried. That is so sad because when you’re a new runner, you need all the confidence you can get! Good luck with your training!! I’m adding you to my google reader- denise:)
Thanks for letting me know that Denise!! You know I did try and get longer strides towards the end of my runs…maybe that’s what did it. I want this sooooo badly. I am trying to decide if I am going to try and run tomorrow. I really can’t take it anymore. I am not someone who can just quit so I may run through the pain. Glad you found my blog! Look forward to reading yours too!!