Well…it took me a while to recover from the marathon -- physically and emotionally. I was physically and emotionally pissed off and fed-up about my (lack of) physical recovery.
Long story short – after being born with a lack of confidence in the chiropractic field, I figured it was time to give it a shot. Several running friends gave high accolades to one particular chiro who practices ART – active release therapy. I made an appointment, retold my year-long injury story and mentioned that I was leery of chiropractors. She recommended a back x-ray based on my medical history. When I was about 12, I was diagnosed with spondylolsis – small fracture in my vertebra which caused hip pain. I thought, yeah, I should get another back xray to at least see how things had changed since I was 12. The xray revealed something interesting...I am now diagnosed with isthmic spondylolisthesis– I may have had this for years. Now, I don't require surgery, but I’m still not sure how I feel about this. Check out this link for an animated explanation http://www.spine-health.com/video/spondylolisthesis-symptoms-causes-and-treatment-options-video
I will tell you what I’m doing about it. I am NOT resting. Through strength training, I am getting my core and upper body stronger than it ever was before. Dr. Carley is working out my piriformis, psoas, lower back and things are finally getting loose. My body works symmetrically now and I no longer run on my toes. This happened naturally, didn’t even have to think about it. Next on my list is to get into yoga.
In terms of running, I am registered for two half marathons – one in April, and one in June. I ran 12 glorious miles last weekend without pain before, during, or after the run. I’m running my fourth season with Team In Training – not sure if it will be a half or a full. I really feel in the game. In fact, I wrote a little poem...
an ode to a tale of woe
by runJ9run
Oh calf with pain!
To what do I attribute thee?
Shin splints, stress fracture I did not see.
One blamed the sacroiliac
To be out of place
I wore a funky belt, which caused some disgrace.
It took one who listened, to finally see.
A vertebra set ajar
Caused this leg pain…when I ran too far.
My muscles compensated
As I ran upon a right toe
I’d like to think, it’s why I ran slow.
Sooooooo many issues
Tight piriformis, psoas, IT
Caused Doc Carley to dig into me
All hail core! Strength training and more!
You may have kicked my ass.
But you indeed, improved my perform-ance.
And to whom do I thank?
Why ME!
For becoming an advocate of my medical his-tor-y!
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