Dealing with Stabbing Heel Pain

These are the dog days of Winter and when you’re a triathlete with an injury, that can be treacherous territory.  I’ll be the first to admit, I have been bummin.

This year has been amazing in so many ways.  I have done things I never dreamed of, like completing an Ironman, of course, but it’s so much more.  I was waking up early and seizing the day at a lake 3 mornings a week.  I was working out before and after work.  I had lots of energy and was full of optimism more often than not.  But lately, I have been limping around and muddling in doubt.

Then, a few days ago, I went back to the basics.  Stretching, leg exercises, and the foam roller.  I really dove in and worked on loosening up my calf muscles, hamstrings, quads, and glutes.  I mean, I was makin’ love to foam.  The next day brought a pleasant surprise.

For the first time in months, I stepped out of bed without any heel pain.  It was like a damn miracle.

I thought it was plantar fasciitis, then a physical therapist diagnosed it as “fat pad syndrome,” but over time realized it wasn’t really the pounding that hurt, it was the push off.  So, once again, I trusted my first opinion, and decided it was plantar fasciitis.

Since then, I would like to say it is “healed” but it’s not quite 100%.  Another big issue is all the time I spend at a desk.  Either at work or editing/writing at night.  The minute I stand up, it feels like someone is stabbing me in the heel, then I think to myself, why would someone do such a silly thing?  That would be kind of a weird place to stab someone, I think, but after feeling that pain, it may not be such a bad idea.

So, the next time you feel like stabbing someone, give the heel some thought.  It could really screw up their training.

3 Replies to “Dealing with Stabbing Heel Pain”

  1. I am sorry for your pain, it must be maddening! I will suggest you to:
    • Avoid putting weight on your leg as best you can.
    • Ice your leg for about 20 to 30 minutes every three to four hours for two to three days or until the pain is gone to reduce pain and swelling.
    • Compress your leg.
    • Use a heel lift, It will protect your Achilles tendon from further stretching.
    • Practice stretching and strengthening exercises but be careful to avoid too much stretching that could aggravate the problem.
    These tips really helped me in alleviating my heel pain so I hope it helps you too!

    1. Thanks for reading and the input. I Have done most of that sporadically and I think ultimately it has been rest, soft stretching, and the heel lifts that is helping me turn the page.

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