Runners' Guestbook


Name: susan
Email:rshuff@swbell.net
Date: Friday, September 18, 1998 at 11:00:18
Comments:
My husband developed PF the day he started wearing a pair of Nikes with a curve last. He switched to a pair of Brooks Beast with a straight last, and hasn't had any sign of PF since.

Name: Carl
Email:carl@chds.org
Date: Wednesday, September 16, 1998 at 19:43:28
Comments:
I've been running regularly for 25 years without any heel problems whatsoever until about two months ago. Now, the pain in my right heel borders on excruciating; I can barely walk. My doctor told me today that I have plantar fasciitis. The only thing I've done differently over the past couple of months is to switch running shoe brands from New Balance to Asics Gels. Could switching shoe brands cause this to happen?

Name: ben
Email:brb77@hotmail.com
Date: Friday, September 4, 1998 at 00:20:32
Comments:
I am 39, and got heel pain in February. In retrsopect the onet was due to running in a worn out pair of shoes and increasing milage too rapidly (was doing around 25 KMs a week. I change my shoes and the pain went away. In April I used to get it occassionally, but only in the mornings, would stop after 15 minutes of running. I continued like this till April, when one coldish night I had a car breakdown on the freeway. I jogged in my black shoes to the phone. Well next day I had full blown pain in my heel all day. At around this time I read about PF and realised I needed to seek help. I went to a physiotherapist, who started weekly massage of my heel, and recommended calf stretches. After 2 weeks he gave me a set of off-the shelf orthotics. That made my situation worse. I continued with th treatment for another 6 weeks. I was even finding it difficult to walk. Things improved when I stopped using my off the shelf orthotics. (Reason: If the support is too high and rigid it makes your plantar fascii to travel more. Instead of providing suppport it extends it. The key thing in PF is if it hurts stop doing it). I started strapping my foot and got some relief, and was able to walk without pain. Around that time I read some articles at the Biomedical journal site and at a medscape site and picked up some good adive . I bought a night splint (which kept my plantar fascii extended all night). This had a big impact on my recovery process. Mornings were the best part of my day. I also started using ice massaging my heel/foot twice a day. I started consuming 1000 mg of Vitamin C (to aid tissue repair). At around the same time I visited a podiatrist and ordered a set of custom orthotics for arch support and preventing overpronation. But the thing that cured my (a couple of weeks ago) was a particular calf stretch. I had read calf stretches are not of benefit to atheletes. The stretch recommended was as follows: Face the wall, and put your palms on the wall. Take the affected leg to the wall. Rest it at an angle with the toes on the wall and the heel on the ground. Then push your hip up and towards the wall. You will feel a stretch in the inside of the calf. I believe a tight calf pulls your heel up and away from your toes and loads the plantar fascii. You will not believe this, the first time I did it, one minute I had pain (for last 5 months) and the next nothing! I felt good for a while after some walking got a slight pain and then again did it. In a weeks time I was almost normal. Regarding excercises, my improvement started when I stopped cycyling and swimming. Swimming in breast stroke is the least likely to cause damage. Also I stopped putting my bare foot on the ground. While having a hot shower I would keep my foot imersed in a cold bucket of water. Best wishes for those suffering PF.

Name: Sara Filbee
Email:sara.filbee@ns.sympatico.ca
Date: Sunday, August 30, 1998 at 14:30:45
Comments:
I have had pf on and off. The last time that I had troubles (rigid golf shoes for 7 hours did me in) I was referred to the fabrifoam PSC product. I have high arches which is why I get this problem from time to time. I found it really helped. I have a number of friends that have had problems with pf and so I just started looking for the company to buy the wraps from (a friend gave me my first one)- Found a number on your reference page - hope it is a number that works in Canada. Thanks

Name: Joe Dillon
Email:jdillon@hibbertco.com
Date: Friday, August 21, 1998 at 18:31:28
Comments:
I am 26 years old and have suffered from PF in my right foot for about 8 months. I think I developed it by increasing my mileage (slightly) and training mostly on hills. Doctors' treatments have proved pretty ineffective on my condition. Stretching has helped a little and ice helps my symptoms a great deal but moderate activity adds to the inflamation. I haven't run more than 300 yards since I stopped running daily 8 months ago. Compensation in my walking stride has resulted in achilles tendonitis in my left foot and I have chronic abdominal strains on my right side. I finally made it through the HMO maze and saw a podiatrist about a month ago. He taped my foot and the weekend it was taped I was active and pain free. My right foot actually felt strong. My abdominal strain cleared up in 2 days. It gave me the first sense of hope I have had since I developed a limp. The doctor told me that my positive response to taping indicated that I would benefit from custom orthotics. I was optimistic to the point of giddiness. Now, I just received my orthotics and have been wearing them for 4 days and my PF is throbbing. I have eased into wearing them 4 hours a day and although the position of my foot feels great, my heel is killing me. My abdominal strain, on the other hand, has cleared up. My optimism is waning quickly. The doctors office tells me that this flare up is natural and is due to my foot being placed in a proper position. The only shoes that I can wear that don't leave my foot aching are my Birkenstocks. I love them to death but will I live the rest of my life in sandals? I live in Colorado! It is going to snow in a month for goodness sake! Any words of encouragement? Am I screwed? Has anyone else developed abdominal strains from this?

Name: Carlos Ferreira
Email:carlos.ferreira@bankamerica.com
Date: Friday, August 14, 1998 at 17:25:03
Comments:
I am a 48 year old athlete who took up masters track & field at the age of 40 after 12 years of long distance running (5K and 10K. I basically was running 100m, 200m and 400m sprints with pretty good success and no serious problems until this year. I developed pain in both heels and eased back on the track workouts, did the ice and ibuprofen regimen then resumed training again with taping of my feet. The pain never went away completely but I had some meets coming up in July and August and I wanted to compete badly. Unfortunately, I ruptured my planter fascia while doing some practice starts out of the blocks. I am walking around in a boot walker now and will lay off any kind of running for at least 3 months. Almost all the information I have found relates to long distance runners.It is great advice but sprinting involves totally different mechanics and stresses on the foot. I would like to hear from any masters track folks who have had PF. I don't know if I have to give up sprinting at my age (as my podiatrist advises) or perhaps I can continue sprinting by taking some preventative measures. Any advice would be appreciated, even if it's telling me to give it up. thanks.

Name: Seamus Kennedy
Email:herscony@aol.com
Date: Wednesday, August 5, 1998 at 17:32:30
Comments:
I run about 10 miles a week. I also own Hersco Orthotic Labs. We deal with a lot of heel pain/PF cases. Prevention is easier than the cure and I recommend that all serious runners have some form of support and good running shoes. Just like brushing your teeth, if you alwaus take the time to brush there will be no surprises later. There are many cost effective options to ensure you have moderate-firm arch support. Feel free to contact me with any questions.

Name: Perry Minton
Email:quillin@onr.com
Date: Monday, August 3, 1998 at 17:52:47
Comments:
I have just been diagnosed with PF and would like to know how many of you continue to exercise. I have it in both feet and have had it for about a year. It does not hurt when I run, only afterwards (sometimes not until the next day). I have not run in sometime now and would like to start again. Your suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

Name: Jane
Email:shields@netusa1.net
Date: Sunday, August 2, 1998 at 20:52:18
Comments:
I am a walker. I walk 15-25 miles a week and walk in the Indy Mini Marathon every year. Last fall I switched from running shoes to walking shoes and within about 2 weeks I developed problems in both heels at the exact same time! I took some time off and finally found a comfortable pair of New Balance running shoes, put in some inserts and kept going. Any advice from other walkers? I can't really rest them since I teach preschoolers and I am also coaching a High School soccer team. I've got to find a way to keep going on my feet. Thanks!

Name: ace
Email:oface19@yahoo.com
Date: Tuesday, July 21, 1998 at 17:53:25
Comments:
Ace here. see if you can contact me!! see if this works!!! https://jupitor.guestworld.tripod.lycos.com/wgb/wgbsign.dbm?owner=oface19

Name: Marc
Email:PBratter@aol.com
Date: Sunday, July 12, 1998 at 17:04:27
Comments:
Hi. I'm a 34-year-old jogger who has just started suffering from PF on my right foot in the last month. I think it has been caused by an increase in jogging and also old running shoes that have worn out. So any advice/recommendations for new running shoes would be most appreciated. Thanks.

Name: Bob
Email:bschaffe@linkline.com
Date: Tuesday, July 7, 1998 at 23:20:31
Comments:
I'm 46 and have been running for about twenty years. Its the most rewarding thing that I do. Abouteight years ago I ran my first marathon and started having severe pain a few weeks after that. I went to four different doctors and got four different diagonoses ranging from orthotics to surgery. The cure for me did not come from any of the doctors but from not exercising my feet (no running, no cycling, no skating) and doing plenty of stretching. I think ice and motrin helped too. Unforturnately I have another attack now but I am convinced that it is just from over-exercising and that I can beat it in a month or so and then get back in training. I'm hoping to get back to marathon form very soon. There is hope out there. You just need some patience. And thank you thank you thank you for creating this very useful site. Good luck to all.

Name: Matt
Email:deadrunner@juno.com
Date: Tuesday, July 7, 1998 at 22:31:52
Comments:
I'm 22 years old and have been suffering with pf for 9 years. I seem to go in 2 year cycles before the pain and inflammation get unbearable, in which case, a new pair of rigid orthotics has always done the trick. By success, I'm meaning subsiding the pain enough so that it's at least bearable to train moderately. After struggling through 4 years of an unsuccessful college career because of the condition, I decided to have the EPF procedure done. Over the past 9 years I've gone through 8 pairs of orthotics, 11 injections, numerous stretching/massage/icing programs, and several lengthy lay-offs up to 6 months. I'm 8 weeks post-surgery, and am becoming more pessimistic daily. Are there any successful surgery recipients that would like to offer their tesitmonial or encouragement? I can't say I regret the procedure because my status post-surgery kept me from doing any serious training. Any advice or encouraging remarks from those that have been there would be greatly appreciated.

Name: Jo Rodgers
Email:jorodgers@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, July 6, 1998 at 19:41:07
Comments:
I was about 60lbs overweight and began walking 15week 5 to 7 time a week. 4.5 to 5 miles in the morning for 1 1/2hours. I began having starting from my waist,legs and foot which after several days the pain disappeared. In the last 5 weeks I lost 17lbs and began to feel happy and proud that I have made and committement and walking has become a habit. This pain in my heel and arch became unbearable so I visited a podiatrist who gave me the sad news about Plantar Fasciitis. He took an impression of my foot and in a couple of week they will be ready. I walked this morning and all day I have been in constant pain. I would like to know has anyone kept up with their regimen of walking or running and what other damage could I be doing to my feet? I see benifits and feel heartbroken that I can't continue. How long must Is it hard to get back into shape? Jo

Name: Jo Rodgers
Email:jorodgers@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, July 6, 1998 at 19:40:53
Comments:
I was about 60lbs overweight and began walking 15week 5 to 7 time a week. 4.5 to 5 miles in the morning for 1 1/2hours. I began having starting from my waist,legs and foot which after several days the pain disappeared. In the last 5 weeks I lost 17lbs and began to feel happy and proud that I have made and committement and walking has become a habit. This pain in my heel and arch became unbearable so I visited a podiatrist who gave me the sad news about Plantar Fasciitis. He took an impression of my foot and in a couple of week they will be ready. I walked this morning and all day I have been in constant pain. I would like to know has anyone kept up with their regimen of walking or running and what other damage could I be doing to my feet? I see benifits and feel heartbroken that I can't continue. How long must Is it hard to get back into shape? Jo

Name: Mark
Email:mbmitchell@compuserve.com
Date: Thursday, July 2, 1998 at 15:28:16
Comments:
I developed a case of pf in my left foot after running earlier in the morning than usual and not stretching first. I managed to figure out what the problem was and, after much searching found this site and others that talk about the problem and how to deal with it. After reading several of the letters, I realized that I had to be pretty agressive about the treatment or I wasn't going to be able to run for a while. The first thing was to buy Superfeet inserts for my street shoes. I looked inside my normal shoes and realized they had no arch support whatsoever, and the inserts helped a lot. I also bought Spenco inserts for my Nike running shoes which helped a lot. But the thing which seemed to help the most was to buy an inexpensive $5 Ace elastic ankle brace. After I went running one day, I was in a lot of pain, and for some reason it occurred to me to buy the ankle brace. I sprained my left ankle when I was a teenager and ever since then it has been a little weak. This made an immediate difference in my pain level and I knew I had hit on a partial solution. Within a couple of days, I was able to run without too much pain. I do foot massages with an old ibuprofen bottle, which by the way, I take before every run. But the ankle brace made the biggest difference. Of course, the insoles keep the problem from recurring, I hope. Good luck to everyone.

Name: Bonnie
Email:bsMay@aol.com
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 1998 at 20:20:26
Comments:
Am I ever depressed. I have run about 30-35 miles per week for over 20 years injury free. With no apparent changes in anything I've been doing or in weight, I suddenly have PF. From all the guestbook comments, I'm wondering if I'll ever run again. Does anybody recover?!? What really works best?!? I am also an avid golfer, walking at least 3 rounds per week -- should I still play, but use a cart? HELP!

Name: Bonnie
Date: Tuesday, June 30, 1998 at 20:14:25
Comments:

Name: Marian
Email:gigem1@juno.com
Date: Wednesday, June 17, 1998 at 21:27:48
Comments:
I was happy to find the website, but am pretty distressed at what I've read. My doctor lead me to believe I would only have to stop running, jump roping and step aerobics for a few weeks.... sounds like most of the people on this board have had to lay off even longer... Unfortunately I hate swimming and bicycling. I have an old exercycle, but I guess I'll have to get a new one that'll give me a better workout. My running, jump roping, and step aerobics were my way of dealing w/ bulimia... The thought of going months w/out aerobic exercise really scares me...

Name: Madeleine
Email:trxgaga@siu.edu
Date: Tuesday, June 16, 1998 at 16:15:08
Comments:
You runners probably know other athletes and may be better a better resource than the general PF population. I am a personal trainer and step/low impact aerobics instructor. I have worn Nike's for two years, developing my problem with PF as a chronic injury only in January. I need new cross-trainers for my work. I have been using inserts which certainly help, but as Nike's have no arch supports at all, I need to replace them with something that will have more features in the shoe itself. I hear good things about New Balance for running--maybe similar results for aerobics? Help, anybody, before I need a second mortgage!

Name: Linda
Email:Armitall@sprynet.com
Date: Friday, June 12, 1998 at 22:08:45
Comments:
I will never buy Nike Running Shoes again !!! I am a cross-trainer who decided to deviate from my reliable Saucony running shoes. Bought the expensive Nike's. Thought I hadn't broken them in enough and continued to run.. only to develop PF. I have never, never had an injury to any joint, tendon or bone. Guess who is now 4 weeks without running. Missed 2 major races and miss running with my husband. Well, you can bet that I am going to heed the advice on the PF website! I never realized how many runners have this problem, until you tell them why you aren't running any longer. Three heavy duty runners have told me that Nike Running Shoes are the Worst! Do yourself a favor and prevent this nagging injury. If you don't feel comfortable with the support of your running shoes, don't keep them! Thanks for a great web site!

Name: Michael Klein
Email:michaelklein@sprynet.com
Date: Thursday, June 11, 1998 at 21:20:41
Comments:
I think I have Plantar Fisciitis. Where do I get Orthotics or arch supports for my insoles and should I see a Pediatrist or my regular doctor?

Name: greg
Email:obismarck@hotmail.com
Date: Saturday, May 30, 1998 at 22:19:31
Comments:
How to treat PF knot (seems to be scar tissue) just under top-inside part of the right heel? Had PF tear last November. Took a month off. Gradually resumed and achieved new PRs in 5k and 10k races in April and May. But the damn knot has not gone away and sometimes gets tender (more with normal distance pace than with shorter quality or up-tempo sessions). I have not been icing as much. No orthotics or injections. Normal foot strike. Has been about 5 months now, but it was several months coming on. More stretching and patience? I do about 30-40 miles a week. Any wisdom?

Name: david
Date: Thursday, May 28, 1998 at 01:04:21
Comments:
I just wanted to add a note with a positive slant... I developed a mild case of PF in training for my first marathon. My regular doc was no help, but then I stumbled across this site. I followed the regimen described herein: good shoes, ice massage, lots of ibuprofin. Over the course of several months, the pain faded and now is gone completely. Is it still there, lurking below the surface? I don't know, but I do know that now I can go for 4+ hour runs without pain. Thanks for a great site!

Name: Cheryl
Email:mcpie@infonline.net
Date: Saturday, May 23, 1998 at 09:58:11
Comments:
I am an "old" survivor of PF. I can trace the roots of my PF to 3 weeks of standing on a ladder painting the interior of my house in 1979. I had not yet begun to run yet, so the rest, foot taping, untrasound, Nike Air shoes and the " You must lose 10 pounds from Dr. Clune(ultra marathoner)were pretty easy to take. We also decided that driving(with my PF foot on the gas pedal) were part of the problem! That was a 2 month recovery! Now that I have been running for 14 years, I have only been bothered with PF about 3 times and each bout with PF has been only a few weeks of treating my foot with TLC. I also believe that good running shoes and my carbon fiber orthotics have saved me, because PF never really goes away, it just stops being painful! I teach third grade and am on my feet all day long on a carpeted, wooden floor. I teach, run, walk, and live in Nike Air Max running shoes. I really think that early detection and care are the key to not needing surgery or lots of down time! Every time I begin to feel the morning pain--- I begin to back off running (Husband and I tandem cycle), I begin icing my foot, and I call my doctor!

Name: Stuart
Email:stuart@easynet.on.ca
Date: Monday, April 20, 1998 at 19:43:52
Comments:
I'm not a "hardcore" runner (in terms of speed), but I enjoy marathons and ultras. Last fall, after the Chicago Marathon and a PB in 10 km one week after (38 mins.), I couldn't walk the morning after a long run. I was limping most of the day, but the pain in my heel faded into the evening. Like Stephen (also on this site), my pain is on the outside of the left foot, but has on occasion "shifted" to underneath the foot. My RMT has seemed to have the best handle on this, but after a couple of months of inactivity (just weight training), I'm beginning to think I'll never be able to run again. Right now I'm stretching, wearing my orthotics all the time (when I'm wearing shoes), icing, and continuing to sit on my ass wondering when I'll do my next marathon. Frankly, hearing that this may not go away for months (or maybe a year) is depressing. If anyone has any thoughts on this, let me know. At any rate, thanks very much for letting me sound off; this site is very therapeutic.

Name: Stuart
Email:stuart@easynet.on.ca
Date: Monday, April 20, 1998 at 19:43:43
Comments:
I'm not a "hardcore" runner (in terms of speed), but I enjoy marathons and ultras. Last fall, after the Chicago Marathon and a PB in 10 km one week after (38 mins.), I couldn't walk the morning after a long run. I was limping most of the day, but the pain in my heel faded into the evening. Like Stephen (also on this site), my pain is on the outside of the left foot, but has on occasion "shifted" to underneath the foot. My RMT has seemed to have the best handle on this, but after a couple of months of inactivity (just weight training), I'm beginning to think I'll never be able to run again. Right now I'm stretching, wearing my orthotics all the time (when I'm wearing shoes), icing, and continuing to sit on my ass wondering when I'll do my next marathon. Frankly, hearing that this may not go away for months (or maybe a year) is depressing. If anyone has any thoughts on this, let me know. At any rate, thanks very much for letting me sound off; this site is very therapeutic.

Name: John Ferraro
Email:ferraro@sybase.com
Date: Saturday, April 11, 1998 at 10:21:02
Comments:
I had been suffering from PF for three years.The methods of treatment included rest,stretching,ice,therapy,injections ,taping and two sets of custom made orthotics.All these things helped but the heel pain was still there. Four months ago I met Dr. Merrel Cook,who was selling foot orthotics, these orthotics were unlike any other I'd seen or felt before.I purchased a pair and after two weeks my heel pain was gone! If anyone would like his number: DR MERRELL H COOK Westminster CA. 714 896-8786

Name: Tony
Email:[smtp:tlw@kochind.com]
Date: Thursday, April 9, 1998 at 13:20:47
Comments:
I have been reading everything I can get my hands on since coming down with PF 11 months ago. I have gone through the alphabet of treatments and still currently have it. I have gotten to the point that I do not think it will ever go away completely, but only subside for brief periods (nonrunning times). Question: If the inflammation is a result of injury (microscopic tearing of the PF)due to stress on the PF as a result of inflexibility, and if the result of healing is less flexible scar tissue, then why should I think that the PF will ever totally go away? It is like a never ending circle. I know I am cynical about this, but I actually enjoy cortisone shots. Quick fix, back on the road. That should tell you something about the pain I have.

Name: Brian
Email:waltersb@kih.net
Date: Monday, April 6, 1998 at 23:43:45
Comments:
There is not a cure for Plantar Fasciitas. That is because there is no one simple solution. I am not a doctor, but I am successfully recovering from PF. First, I take Glucosime & Chondroitin daily. Second, I rest as much as possible throughout the day. That means no running to you out there who may be trying to run through the injury. I tried that as well-and it cost me several extra months of time for recovery! Third, icing 3 or 4 times a day seem to help immensely. I believe stretching is important equal to massaging. I try to incorporate the two together once or twice a day. Orthotics have helped immensely, but they are not a solution to the problem by themselves. They simply take pressure off the fascia, giving it time to heal. The fascia must be strengthened as well to avoid future reoccurrence of inflammation. Doing toe curls, where you pull your toes down and inward toward the heel strengthens the fascia. I've noticed the Strassburg sock helps strengthen this tendon as well. The sock also provides relief to those of us who have suffered from getting up out of bed too quickly in the morning. I advise that those who must exercise either try swimming or weightlifting. These are the only two sports I tried that didn't aggravate my injury further. I tried cycling, walking, eliptic machines and cross country ski machines, but they all aggravated the injury if I continued a workout of over 15 minutes. I hope many find this message helpful and wish all an expedient return to the "normal" life.

Name: Matt
Email:Matthew.Laurinas@valpo.edu
Date: Sunday, April 5, 1998 at 13:21:01
Comments:
Hi fellow runner and PF suffers, I am a freshman in college and have had Pf for the last 7 months. I am an 800 meter runner with a PR of 1:55 and have not even come close to that in the last 7 months because of PF. I have taken months off, had injections, used a night splint, taken oral medication, gone to physical therapy,used ultrasound, got taped daily, etc. I really don't know the next step. I run division I track and CC and really want to get back to my normal racing. I need suggestions on if surgery would be the best for me? If anyone has had the surgery please let me know the benefits. I am 18 and have been running for 10 years, would I be able to get back up to top form again? Thank you and good luck to all my PF suffers. (I feel all your pain)

Name: Mike Branger
Email:Mike.Branger@Reebok.com
Date: Tuesday, March 3, 1998 at 00:43:55
Comments:
I have had PF for 11 months now. Dull pain along the arch of both feet. Orthotics help some but standing a long time (working a trade show) seems to be the worst for me. Also, hard floors withouth my orthotics are painful around the house. I was running 35 miles/wk and increased my milage to quickly (to over 50 miles) and got PF. I tried to run off and on for 10 months and finally gave up. I've not run for 6 weeks now and pain is about the same. Stretching, asprin, ibuprofin, and ice don't make a lot of difference. My problem is that once I start feeling better, my job (or some other reason) has me on my feet a lot, like on hard floors carrying a heavy computer and breifcase through airports, and the problem comes back. My advice. Let the inflamation go out completely until there is no pain. Don't push your luck and keep off your feet as much as possible (a terrible sentence for a dedicated runner). Once the pain has subsided for at least 3 of 4 weeks (I hope this happens within the next 3 months), start running again verrrrry slow and build up milage even slower. Good luck fellow suffers!

Name: Mike
Email:mjdotson@wcc.net
Date: Saturday, February 21, 1998 at 19:38:52
Comments:
I've been suffering from P.F. for approx. 1 year. I have been relatively injury-free for the 16 years that I have been running(5K PR 16:14). Unfortunately my good fortune changed after doing a session of 200m. intervals at our local college track this summer. I noticed a dull pain in my heal during the middle of the interval session but ignored it and pressed on with my workout. Well after a few months of denying the problem I finally took 5 weeks off from running. This was very difficult for me. This helped a little but did not completely take the pain away. I have started weight training but this does not give me the same enjoyment that running does. I plan on trying biking to compensate for my reduced running regimen as suggested in the previous posts. Thank you very much for this sight.

Name: Lois Tucker
Email:ltucker@planning.org
Date: Friday, February 20, 1998 at 12:58:32
Comments:
I've had plantar fasciitis for a number of years now. I thought surgery would "cure" the problem, but it didn't. Mind you I can at least now walk on the foot most of the time as I need to. I've just met a guy who runs marathons and I want to run with him. Would be interested in knowing how other runners who have this problem manage to cope and get through a run.

Name: cal
Date: Wednesday, February 4, 1998 at 10:25:40
Comments:
Paul's note below re. running shoes is right on. I learned this one the hard way. In my opinion (and Paul's), if you have PF look for a running shoes that has a VERY firm midsole (or shank). These shoes are categorized in magazines under good "stability"..try Saucony, Brooks, some Asics. Bend the shoe with your hands....it should NOT collapse in the midsole!...it will bend on the forefront as the foot rolls, but not the midsole. Alot of these slick running shoes have horrible midsole stability, bad news for the pesky old PF...Good Luck!

Name: paul
Date: Sunday, February 1, 1998 at 14:55:25
Comments:
Thanks for the great site on plantar fasciitis. I've been able to either learn new things or confirm long standing beliefs of my own. I have had plantar fasciitis for 5 years and I've tried about everything. Here are some observations over the years (for whatever good it might do): * Lose weight! The key is to lose a certain percentage of your body weight - whether you be fat or a muscle-head. * Get a shoe with a very rigid shank. Today's basketball shoes are atrocious! You can take them and twist the whole sole. NBA trainers have actually spoken out on this subject as leading to an increase in soft tissue foot injuries. The current trend is for modular designs in running shoes with no connection between the heel and the ball of the foot. This is fine for bio-mechanically efficient runners, but horrible for most others. The result is that I've been approached by over 30 people (I've counted) in the last 2 years with heel spurs compared to 5 in the first 3 years. Most of these people run in Nike today. Most of their Nike's have no shank rigidity. When asked, most said they used to run in a much more rigid running shoe (New Ballance, Brooks, etc...) * Tape! I tape my arch (too hard to explain the method - just give the arch some support). I also custom tape the underside of the insert that comes with the shoe to build it up. I just finished a half marathon and couldn't have done it without the tape support. DO WATCH OUT for tape schemes that put stress on the Achilles tendon. * Get custom orthotics made by "casting" your foot. These can't be worn for running, but they should be used in your day shoes all the time. * Stretch. Achilles tendon stretches and calf stretches are critical. Personal note: I noticed that diuretics (caffeine: coffee, chocolate, soda) decrease the elasticity of my connective tissue (tendons, ligaments, fascia). This is counter productive to the stretching I do - so I gave up the stimulant. The result was impressive. When I falter and get back on the juice, I have flare-ups. * Run on flat surfaces. Slope to the right? Your left arch will go out. Slope to the left? Your right arch will go out. Bottom Line: Run on flat surfaces, lose weight, use tape, build or buy proper rigid support. Finally, make sure you get new running shoes every calendar quarter. All this is hearsay and results from my own experiences, but what the heck. Thanks again for the site... Paul

Name: Chris
Date: Saturday, January 17, 1998 at 11:02:52
Comments:
IF YOU ARE FROM COSTA RICA OR HAVE AN INTEREST IN THE COUNTRY, PLEASE VISIT THE FOLLOWING SITE, YOU WILL LIKE IT:

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Name: Nicole Martinez
Email:nmarti07@fiu.edu
Date: Sunday, January 4, 1998 at 19:09:53
Comments:
I have had P.F. for about 1 year now, and I'm pretty sure I got it from, ya, you guessed it, STEP AEROBICS! It seems my heel tries to repair itself, and then I do another step class and re-injure it. I had custom orthotics made, but they really don't seem to help. I was doing step 4 times a week, but lately cannot do it at all. The problem is,I love it! I recently bought an elliptical trainer, so I guess its time to start using it!

Name: Brian Skowron
Email:yin@cts.com
Date: Thursday, November 13, 1997 at 18:13:38
Comments:
I have had tendonitis since 1982 causing pain where the Achilles' attaches to the calcaneus. The enormous spur that appeared in 1988 gets aggravated and causes a crippling limp the morning after running over an hour. So I run/rest a few/run. The condition never improves. Ice, heel lifts, Cortisone, massage, night splint didn't change it. One acupuncture session cured it for only one day. Ibuprofen gave me an ulcer. I have had three pairs of custom orthotics. The last doc said stretch 3x/day; I only did this 1-2x/day and am not satisfied; I'll see him again tomorrow about a new development, a painful spot on the bottom of the heel in addition to the big growth on the back of the heel where the Achilles' attaches. This new spot makes a "clicking" sound when I shift weight from side-to-side, like a ridge of cartilage or something (?). It feels as if I'm walking on a left foot and a right calcaneus w.o. any flesh! I anticipate doing intense stretching and then maybe surrendering to surgery.

Name: Devashish Paul
Email:devpaul@nortel.ca
Date: Friday, November 7, 1997 at 09:42:53
Comments:
Just as a follwup to my previous posting. I'd like all of you to know that the winner of the Ironman Canada Triathlon this year has nursing a PF injury all year, and had to take it really easy with his running training, but was riding 600 km per week. He overcame his PF to the extent that he was able to run a 3:03 marathon split after a smoking 180 km bike ride in 4:41. So there is hope for all...I really recommend the cross training to stay fit and keeping the muscles, ligament and joints in your lower leg active and strong.

Name: Devashish Paul
Email:devpaul@nortel.ca
Date: Thursday, November 6, 1997 at 15:58:43
Comments:
Hi fellow sufferers of PF. I'm a triathlete/runner(marathon PB 2:48)/xc skier who has had PF for the last year and a half. It started training for a long triathlon on the spring of 96. I went for a long bike ride (100km) in close to freezing temperatures and then when I finished (in a semi frozen state) I headed out for a 21 km run. When I started the run, my foot was quite cold and eventually thawed out. When I woke up the next morning I had a slight pain in my heel, which continued every morning throughout the summer, but never really got worse. I could train and race without any problems. In the fall of 96, I started training for XC skiing doing a lot of hill and trail running, and in the course of a month, it went from a nagging tightness every morning, to the point that I couldn't even walk when I got out of bed. I stopped running for 4 months hoping it would go away. I cross country skiied all winter, which didn't seem to bother it, but probably did not help the healing process. I started running in the spring of 97 and every step of my first 10 minute run was so painfull, that I thought I would have to quit running forever. On the advice of a friend who is a pro triathlete, i continued with short easy runs, followed by easy biking immediately afterwards and stretching. For 2 months, I kept doing the running followed by riding routine, and was gradually able to build my mileage to about 60 km per week of running. I still had to limp out of bed every morning, until my doctor ( a former 2:24 marathoner) gave me a night splint to wear every night. The very next morning I could walk out of bed like a normal 32 year old to pick up his year old kid. By August, I competed in Ironman Canada and ran a 4:03 run split on route to a 10:51 race. The key was to bike after every run ! While I still have PF, it is slowly improving. The key elements are the night splint, mixing light running with cycling (the cycling stretches all the muscles and tendons below your knee), standing on a wine bottle and "rolling it under my foot" and using a foot and calf stretch device called the Prostretch (call 1-800-fitter1). I am also very particular about the shoes I wear for running and at work and I always wear Birkestocks around the house. I also wear superfeet insoles when I do any weight training. From all the horror stories that I've heard, I have to consider myself extremely lucky, but I truely believe that the key ingredients are the running/riding combo and the night splint. Good luck to all with your recoveries. Drop me a line if you want to hear more details of my experience

Name: Devashish Paul
Email:devpau@nortel.ca
Date: Thursday, November 6, 1997 at 15:55:10
Comments:
Hi fellow sufferers of PF. I'm a triathlete/runner(marathon PB 2:48)/xc skier who has had PF for the last year and a half. It started training for a long triathlon on the spring of 96. I went for a long bike ride (100km) in close to freezing temperatures and then when I finished (in a semi frozen state) I headed out for a 21 km run. When I started the run, my foot was quite cold and eventually thawed out. When I woke up the next morning I had a slight pain in my heel, which continued every morning throughout the summer, but never really got worse. I could train and race without any problems. In the fall of 96, I started training for XC skiing doing a lot of hill and trail running, and in the course of a month, it went from a nagging tightness every morning, to the point that I couldn't even walk when I got out of bed. I stopped running for 4 months hoping it would go away. I cross country skiied all winter, which didn't seem to bother it, but probably did not help the healing process. I started running in the spring of 97 and every step of my first 10 minute run was so painfull, that I thought I would have to quit running forever. On the advice of a friend who is a pro triathlete, i continued with short easy runs, followed by easy biking immediately afterwards and stretching. For 2 months, I kept doing the running followed by riding routine, and was gradually able to build my mileage to about 60 km per week of running. I still had to limp out of bed every morning, until my doctor ( a former 2:24 marathoner) gave me a night splint to wear every night. The very next morning I could walk out of bed like a normal 32 year old to pick up his year old kid. By August, I competed in Ironman Canada and ran a 4:03 run split on route to a 10:51 race. The key was to bike after every run ! While I still have PF, it is slowly improving. The key elements are the night splint, mixing light running with cucling (the cycling stretches all the muscles and tendons below your knee), standing on a wine bottle and "rolling it under my foot" and using a foot and calf stretch device called the Prostretch (call 1-800-fitter1). I am also very particular about the shoes I wear for running and at work and I always wear Birkestocks around the house. I also wear superfeet insoles when I do any weight training. From all the horror stories that I've heard, I have to consider myself extremely lucky, but I truely believe that the key ingredients are the running/riding combo and the night splint. Good luck to all with your recoveries.

Name: Marnie
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 1997 at 13:12:58
Comments:
In response to Jody's comments: I only run about 3 days a week now, when I'm not having a lot of pain. I will tell you what I think aggravates the pain the most...step aerobics. I usually take a step class once a week in addition to other activities, and I have found that it aggravates my condition more than any other activity. It even hurts during the class (when I run, it only hurts afterward, never during), so I would advise staying away from aerobics. I also just wanted to thank everyone for contributing to this site. It's very frustrating when my family and friends don't understand why I bitch and moan so much about this pain! I swear sometimes they don't believe me! Do you know what I mean?

Name: Marnie
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 1997 at 13:10:25
Comments:
In response to Jody's comments: I only run about 3 days a week now, when I'm not having a lot of pain. I will tell you what I think aggravates the pain the most...step aerobics. I usually take a step class once a week in addition to other activities, and I have found that it aggravates my condition more than any other activity. It even hurts during the class (when I run, it only hurts afterward, never during), so I would advise staying away from aerobics. I also just wanted to thank everyone for contributing to this site. It's very frustrating when my family and friends don't understand why I bitch and moan so much about this pain! I swear sometimes they don't believe me! Do you know what I mean?

Name: Beth BLincoe
Email:bblincoe@fruit.com
Date: Monday, November 3, 1997 at 16:16:12
Comments:
I ran with this condition for about one month and then had to totally take off because the pain became too intense. I was a 50 mile a week runner (and would like to be again) I have resorted to swimming laps, weight training, and biking. I have not gained any weight yet due to this condition. My pain is very subtle right now, two months since it hurt too bad to walk. I am trying to figure out what remedy to take next, I changed shoes several times before I totally quit running. I was wearing flexible orthotics, that I had slowly begun not to use at the start of this condition (which may be why it began). I am torn between purchasing a pair of rigid orthotics from my podiatrist, or sticking with the flexible ones, and trying a new shoe for motion control. I would like to know what women's shoes are available that would be good for this condition. I will not begin to run again until the pain is completely gone. I am not sure whether I need a cushioned shoe or one for motion control. Any advice on orthotic choices or shoe choices? Thanks!

Name: Terry Black
Email:obanlass@mindspring.com
Date: Saturday, October 25, 1997 at 19:06:21
Comments:
Thanks, everyone, for all your comments/info/experiences with PF. I have been battling it for about two years, and gave up my 15-18 miles per week and went to an exercise bike in an effort to cure this beastly malady. Seemed to be a little better, so went back to walking, then running. It got a little worse, then seemed to level off. As long as I don't run two days in a row, it doesn't seem to get worse; but it's definitely NOT getting better. I haven't tried any splints, orthotics, or anything else. Any one got any recommendations/advice? Thanks again!

Name: Jody
Email:Delavern@gale.com
Date: Monday, October 20, 1997 at 11:13:31
Comments:
I was diagnosed about 2 years ago and finally had to give up running last November. I have not gotten much better. I can walk around, but not for very long. Aerobics, standing, running, walking and stair climbing all bother me. I always have pain, even when sitting. I have orthotics, but they don't help much plus they are hard and I lose all the benefit of expensive cushiony, supportive shoes. My doctor just gives me anti-inflamatory medicine which I can't take because they bother my stomach. I'm thinking maybe I need a different orthotic or Doctor. Any suggestions, or shall I just give up the idea of running and walking (including long shopping trips) for the rest of my life? My insurance does not cover the orthotic, so I can't afford to play around. Any help is appreciated because I'm tired of sitting around. thanks.

Name: Stephan
Email:sck@pipeline.com
Date: Tuesday, October 14, 1997 at 15:25:37
Comments:
I used to be a fairly dedicated runner (20 - 30 miles per week). I took several years off because of knee problems. I started running again recently every other day (2-4 miles). One evening after a run, for no apparent reason, the outside edge of my foot began to hurt. I iced, stretched and medicated w/ Ibuprofen. The pain didn't stop. It tried to run through to no avail. I finally broke down and saw my doctor who diagnosed PF, even though my pain was on the outside edge and not the bottom of the foot. Two days later the pain shifted to the bottom (go figure). Anyone have this happen to them? I've begun the stretching exercises, ordered new shoes, and bought inserts. I've always been a swimmer so I have the alternate exercises, but I enjoy running with others and hope to continue. Hopefully one of the above treatments will work, even thought from reading what is available on the Web I may be in for a long recovery if I want to continue running.

Name: Cal
Date: Friday, October 10, 1997 at 14:51:13
Comments:
Marnie, Thanks for the input. I actually have two friends that have made complete recoveries from the dreaded PF; recovery 1yr+-. Although, after readed this website, I think that they are the exception, not the rule!....They both are EXTREMELY cautious not to do anything that might create a relapse. CAN YOU BLAME THEM. My problem is, after stopping running, I gained 15 pounds. Exactly what the old PF does not want.....I think you and I have similar cases: WE cannot get over the HUMP!. I have felt better in the last couple of months which is somewhat encouraging, but the pain is still in there.My plan; get back down to my ideal weight by 1/1/98 and start a very modest running program (low miles, flat surface) ....If this approach fails I will not hesitate to step it up a notch and consider a cast or surgery. I REALLY do not want to go thru this crazy situation another year! Marnie, I am in no position to give advice, but you might consider stopping running for a while just to see if there is a step-function decrease in the pain level. Watch your diet!!?? This could be the one thing that could put you over the top. Both my friends that recovered ended up stopping their chosen sport for 3-6 months to obtain a full recovery. Ask your Ortho Dr. Anyway, Thanks and good luck!!!.....Scott, thanks again for incredible webite!

Name: Marnie
Date: Friday, October 10, 1997 at 12:44:50
Comments:
In response to Cal, I have continued to run (although never 2 days in a row anymore) throughout my bout with PF. I sleep in a night splint, wear custom made orthotics, and try to be religious about doing my stretches. I have had one injection (it did nothing but make it sore for a day or so) and I have taken many NSAIDs, but don't even take them anymore. I have found that if I stretch and sleep in the splint, it does not hurt at all while I am running, only later, which I try to combat by stretching my foot even more. It really bothers me that there seems to be no end to the problem! The thought of sleeping in splints every night forever does not thrill me or my husband very much. If anyone has ever been able to overcome the problem, please let me know how!

Name: Cal
Date: Tuesday, October 7, 1997 at 09:28:28
Comments:
I have heard many runners maintain their training through this condition. Either I am a major wimp, their are some serious tough runners out there, or their is a significant range of severity of this disorder. I originally tried to run through this thing. I now believe in retrospect this approach delayed the healing process. It seems like a contradiction, but you have to rest, AND keep of the pounds. Running was a way of life which was tough to give up, but I finnaly gave in to swimmimg, weights, and bicycle trainer as an exercise substitute. I have met with 4 proffessionals re PF and all say the same thing: Pain is the gauge, if it hurts its not heeled, bottom line. I am getting better(SLOWLY!) but will not run until spring, hoping next summer will be an enjoyable running season!...Good luck fellow ruuners!