The party’s over, I’ll be in the corner crying
As y’all my know, I’ve been having some hip problems lately. So this morning I headed off to the local sports medicine doctor for an opinion. A bunch of x-rays later, we had some conversations. The good news is there doesn’t appear to be any fractures or other injuries that could be really bad. Since that’s what I was worried about, I was happy to hear that.
The bad news is, he is suggesting I “take it easy” for 4 weeks, do a bunch of physicial therapy and cross training, and try not to run.
The conversation went something like this:
Dr: So you’re running everyday, about 3 miles.
Me: Well, I am running everyday, but I’m averaging about 3 miles.
Dr.: Okay, we should take it easy…<bunch of other stuff>…and 3 miles a day is a bit for someone built like you.
Me: Let me clarify, since I probably wasn’t clear earlier. I average 3 miles a day. Some days, I only do 1 mile. Other days, I’ll do 20. I just did 21 and some change a couple weeks ago with no problem.
[Dr. eyes get really big]
Dr.: You mean you go out for 21 miles? How often?
Me: Yeah. I try to do that once or twice a month. I have a couple of 50K’s planned, and a marathon in a few months.
Dr.: Oh, that changes everything! Thats a lot of miles at one time.
Me: uh, yeah. but it’s no problem to do. the pain stays the same on those days than the shorter days.
Dr.: Yes, that definitely changes everything. Besides the physical therapy, you should definitely take it easy and not run for a little while. Running is hard on the real skinny people I see, and for someone who has a build like yours, its going to be a bit harder. And you say you’ve been running for 3 years with no injury?
Me: Yeah, I’ve amazed myself with the fact I haven’t had a serious injury. Well, my knee had some issues, and I took it easy for a couple weeks. No big deal…
… the conversation went on a bit more…
The end result is, I think I’m going to end the streak as of yesterday’s run. Had I know it was going to be the last one for a while, I would have done something exciting. At least last weekend was fun. (Still have the blog post to complete about that.)
I’ll have a month of PT ahead of me, and there is another specialist I’ll go to next month that sounds exciting. Some sort of nutritionist who does metobolic assessments and stuff. And cross training is fine, and I like biking, so not the end of the world…
I hate to hear that Rahn. Hopefully you will heal up quickly and begin an even longer streak.
Thanks. I went to my first physical therapy. After the guy stopped laughing at my lack of flexibility, it promised me that when I return, it should be much better than before.
But the highlight-reading the doctors report that was faxed over. Obviously, I took the opportunity to read it:
“Upon return to runner…the long run each week should not exceed 50% of the total mileage for the week. He obviously is not doing that now.”
Yes, obviously, I don’t do that now.
I didn’t know I needed to.
(Note: I’m not disrespecting the doctor, I just think what’s written is funny.)
I’m not so sure about all that. Sure your hip might be sore. But that doesn’t mean quit running necessarily.
Your doc sounds like the classic “running’s not so good for you” doc. Course I’m prejudiced and all but I’d find a doc that knew about runners.
Anyways the goal is long term fitness. So whatever it takes to get you back out there is good. I’m looking forward to seeing you at the next 50k.
I see a “Six-Million-Dollar-Rahn” story starting here. A few weeks of PT and special diet; you’ll be back stronger and faster than ever before!
Take advantage of the rest, you’ve certainly earned it. A streak ended, but a streak worthy of envy no doubt.
Congrats! Here’s to being pain-free when you return!
Hehe…I could use some bionic parts. Maybe the physical therapist will have something for me.
I think I’ll do a write-up of training, injuries and common sense one day soon. I’ve thought about it before, and I’ll have time to do some research now.
Hi Rahn,
when you finish that research for common sense, can you send me a couple?
Take is easy and feel better!
I second that comment above, maybe you should see another doctor.
OMG, that was copy not couple!
Hey there Rahn
I am so sorry i haven’t been to your blog!! I didn’t know about your pain and stuff. So you know dude how proud i am of you!! You really out shined and did us streakers proud!!!
Great job!!!
Now its time to take care of yourself so you can get back out there!!! OK???
Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!!! I’m doing a turkey trot 5 miler!!! Should be fun!!!