Rolling Through the Injuries
As our bodies age, we’re unfortunately more prone to injury. Of course, staying active and eating right helps. But even that activity can cause injuries from time to time.
I’ve been dealing with injuries for a while now, starting with my knee. During 80 Day Obsession, I also started having issues with my foot–which ended up being plantar fasciitis.
Seek Professional Help
I know many active adults tend to self-diagnose. It just seems easier, faster and less expensive than going to see a doctor or specialist. But when you can feel something that’s off, you really need to go see a doctor to be sure you’re treating the right injury the right way. Guessing at the cause of the issue and self-treating can just cause more trouble down the road.
I went to a podiatrist when my foot started hurting. He ordered some tests to show me what was wrong and gave me a cortisone shot so I could feel some immediate relief. It worked, but cortisone just masks a bigger issue that needed to be addressed.
My fasciitis came from not stretching enough and having really tight calves. It also could have been due to overuse and favoring one leg over the other during my knee issues. I would frequently miss a workout day because I was hurting too much, but then I’d double up and miss my true rest day so I wouldn’t have to skip any of my workouts.
That’s a recipe for disaster. I just wasn’t taking the time to do the self-care my body so desperately needed.
Finding Relief
On my doctor’s orders, I bought custom orthotics to help my foot feel better. I also started using my foam roller more regularly (I’m not perfect) and doing stretches for my calf and ankle. I’m also rolling my foot regularly using a frozen water bottle.
All of this, combined with quality rest for my whole body, has really helped me move past this set-back. It’s so important, no matter what your age or activity level, to stretch and rest your body when needed. And most importantly, listen to your body and give it the fuel and down time it needs.
While I’m not a doctor or physical therapist, I want to share with you some of the exercises I’m doing to find relief in my plantar fasciitis. If you’re experiencing pain during and after workouts, be sure to check in with your own health care provider.
