Thursday, September 25, 2008

What if?

What if my running days are over?

I don't want to sound melodramatic, but that is a reality that I have to confront. It's in the genes, my friends.

I have followed the doctor's advice dutifully this time. I've worn the brace (all show- no go) and tried to add the minutes gradually. As it is, after a mere five minutes of running, my knee cries. Loudly. I've never felt this kind of knee pain before. It's not something I can "run through" or even try to ignore. I like to think I have a decent pain threshold - but this is beyond what I can take. My body is trying to tell me something. I have another doctor's appointment soon. I'll consult further with him about my next steps (including visiting with a knee specialist).

I'm not going to turn this into a blog about my knees (I promise) so my injury updates will be limited. Besides, that's kind of boring and a basic downer.

Instead, I may find myself turning into an aquabiker. I can enter many of the same races as my buddies, take part in most of the training - and most importantly, remain motivated to stay in shape.

Yes - I'm sad my knees are misbehaving. But, I really can't cry about it. I've already accomplished athletic goals far beyond my dreams.

I'm also not giving up that my knees will heal. But, like the saying goes, "Plan for the worst, but hope for the best."

6 comments:

Ceeej said...

I'm very sorry to hear that your gradual return has been much less than painless.

Looking on the bright side, like you always do, you can now train with us "back of the packers". I'm certain your walking speed is about equal to my running speed!

I will continue to hope for good news for you!

Cj

Cyndi said...

Aw, SQ, I hope it isn't so. I know how much you love the days when you can run simply to settle into the rhythm and enjoy the day. I hope you, at the very least, get well enough to continue to do that. Let us know what the dr. says. I'll be thinking about you. xoxo

C

TriGirl Kate O said...

Ok, so did the knee issues start when you started wearing the orthotics? Have you always had nagging, but not make-you-quit pain? Could they have just been aggravated by the hill work we were doing on the bike?
I am so sorry. I know how you love running. Hugs,

Kate said...

Hugs SQ, I hope all goes well with the healing.

TriGirl 40 said...

Sending positive healing thoughts your way. (Fingers and toes crossed, too).

Anonymous said...

I am so sorry that something you love is causing such pain. Call Jeff, maybe you guys can commiserate. He's hoping his ankle pain is temporary. Here's hoping that BOTH of you are back in running form, and soon.
xoxoxo