Advise on Where to Get Running Shoes

darcyinmo
darcyinmo Posts: 129 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Ok, first off, I live in a VERY rural area. 2 1/2 hours to any mall to be exact. I have a history of a 3/4 leg discrepancy and had surgery last year for a torn plantar fasciitis with fibromas. Now my other foot is exhibiting symptoms of a "sore" fasciitis.

I WANT TO LEARN TO RUN!!!!! I am "older" (44) and never have been able to run -- even in high school because of the leg discrepancy (caused by a break in my growth plate at 10 years old). Even walking over the course of day 5 miles makes my right ankle "very angry" and stiff and sore. I have seen doctors who suggest a lift (considering it IF I can find a shoe to help with the plantar fasciitis first.) or "leg length reduction" (Ain't got time for that year long or more timeframe!)

However, I see on the forums a lot of runners suggests getting your gait analyized and fitted for an appropriate running shoe at a running store that does that type of thing. But which running store? Is there some larger stores out there to get this done? Can someone please advise? I'm asking because I need to know if I need to go North 2 1/2 hours or South 2 1/2 hours.

Ugh, need direction!

Replies

  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    As much as I love to encourage new runners my gut feeling is that your situation may be beyond the expertise that a running shop, even a really good one, may be able to offer.

    I think the old cliche about walking before you run may be appropriate here. If you can't walk pain free running will probably prove tortuous (and the whole idea is fun and fitness).

    Best of luck.
  • darcyinmo
    darcyinmo Posts: 129 Member
    Thanks....not the answer I wanted! LOL! I agree, I want it to be fun!
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    I probably should have expanded on my answer..........get a pair of walking shoes and talk to your Dr or therapist about the lifts. If you can get your walking squared away you can probably move on to running. Given your situation you would probably want to discuss running shoe needs with a sports specialist.

    Don't give up on the idea, just approach it conservatively.......
  • BerryH
    BerryH Posts: 4,698 Member
    Leg length discrepancy is very common and doesn't always require treatment. However, as you're suffering even when walking, I'd suggest you see a podiatrist or physiotherapist. Orthotic insoles can be very expensive, so if they offer you a custom insert, ask if you can get away with an over the counter one:
    http://www.amazon.co.uk/Insoles-Orthotics-Foot-Care/s?ie=UTF8&page=1&rh=n:73996031

    I use to get terrible plantar fasciitis, but I changed running shoes and have Sorbothane inserts for my regular shoes which make all the difference. While its healing, freeze a round water bottle and roll in hard under your sole and heel for 15 minutes every evening.

    One that's sorted, look into a very gradual introduction to running programme like couch to 5k (C25K).

    Good luck! :flowerforyou:
  • darcyinmo
    darcyinmo Posts: 129 Member
    I will definitely look into it! Thanks BerryH!
  • BerryH
    BerryH Posts: 4,698 Member
    PS also look at strengthening your ankles. Do squats with proper form and your feet facing forward, and trace out the letters of the alphabet with your toes under your desk.

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