Running Ankle Pain

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Running- I hate it but it is a necessary evil to achieve my goals :laugh: I'm currently following to couch to 5K program to get me used to running since I really haven't done it since high school (about 12 years ago). My current goal is to be able to run 2 miles in 18:40 by November. I expect some pain at the begining, however my ankles are killing me!

I have searched all over and causes range from shoes, weak joints, poor stretching etc... I stretch alot, don't think I have week joints, my shoes are about 6 months old so this could be the issue. They don't hurt all day, only for about 2 hours after running. In my mind I'm thinking just keep running and my body will get used to it. I only run 3 days a week and not back to back.

Anyone who has gone through this and found a way to beat running pain please let me in on your knowledge :wink:

Replies

  • JulieSmiles1
    JulieSmiles1 Posts: 43 Member
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    Mine started hurting when I tried C25K as well. I ended up having tendonitis in my ankles. I would suggest getting fitted for good running shoes.
  • chevy88grl
    chevy88grl Posts: 3,937 Member
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    I would start with your shoes. I can tell when my shoes are worn out because I start to have ankle and heel pain after I run. :) I would definitely start with that.
  • alison2429
    alison2429 Posts: 236 Member
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    Do you do any other exercise? My ankles started hurting when I started bike riding after running for a few years. Hope yours settle down - but good fitting trainers are essential.
    HTH.
  • LetGoLaughin12
    LetGoLaughin12 Posts: 14 Member
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    If new shoes aren't an option at the moment, try new soles for them. I was having the exact same problem, went to the doc because I thought I might have had a stress fracture. I put new soles in, huge difference! Still alittle pain every once in awhile (mainly when I do something different) but nothing compared to what I was experiencing!
  • CakeFit21
    CakeFit21 Posts: 2,521 Member
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    So, some sources, (and I wish I could tell you which, I'm so sorry) say that stretching too much before you run can loosen your tendons and ligaments leading to pain and injury. I am not saying don't stretch, but since you said you stretch a lot, perhaps you're over stretching?

    I'll see if I can find where I read that.
  • Dizzle_65
    Dizzle_65 Posts: 249 Member
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    Check your shoes are the right ones for you and get your gait analysed. They could be brand new but if they're the wrong ones you'll have problems.
  • Crang81
    Crang81 Posts: 14
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    Thanks everyone, new shoes aren't really an option. Plus when I go to basic I'm going to be made to purchase new ones. I don't want to buy new ones now then 3-4 months later buy new ones again. New soles sound like a place I could start.

    The stretching thing makes sence. I do alot of foot stretches, shin stretches and ankle rotations before running. I'm going to try to switch to stretching after also and see if it helps :smile:
  • Crang81
    Crang81 Posts: 14
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    @sucha65, I never heard that term before, so I had to look it up (Google is my friend). I think most who are new to the running game are more used to the terms flat footed, normal, or high arch. Looking at my shoe I do have wear on the outside of my heal which would mean I'm an over pronator. However I did the wet foot test and it came out neutral.

    This is the site I found with the info. Just wanted to share it. Has some great info on feet :glasses:

    http://www.fitfaqs.co.uk/questions/running-and-marathon-faqs/what-is-my-running-gait/
  • Dizzle_65
    Dizzle_65 Posts: 249 Member
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    @sucha65, I never heard that term before, so I had to look it up (Google is my friend).

    Google is everyones friend :wink: