So I'm running again. It's been a while. And I need outside assistance. Contrary to their high level of sexiness, and their cool, relaxing, structure, these Yoga Toes are not just about achieving an every day zen-like quality. No, they are a necessary piece of equipment to help me get through running races without hobbling like a 90-year-old.
I was dumb and ran a 10-miler a week and a half ago without any recent training. Past experience has indicated I would be fine. I have a strong enough running base. Sure. No problem. Tell that to my feet two days later when I couldn't walk down the stairs in my house without going one at a time, and only right foot first. I looked like a toddler just learning to navigate stairs for the first time, holding on for dear life as I descended. Except toddlers don't make the same funny noises I was making. I was tempted to call up and order the amazing chair lift thing that slowly rides you up your home stairs.
Throughout the years I have tried many stretches, the horrid ice bath, and physical therapy. All of these are good things and do work. But I have been simply amazed that these funky little toe spacers seem to be keeping the pain at bay. I'm not sure how it works or why, but it does. I just can't get up while they're on. I forgot once, jumped up to answer the phone, and fell flat on my face. They stretch your feet out well, but don't really give you free range of movement while they're on. I have a hard enough time walking in the little flimsy toe spreaders they put on you after a pedicure while your toe nails dry. This is much more intense, despite their friendly, girly pink color.
Running is a painful foe, yet I can't seem to shake it. Will I ever learn my lesson? Is this a sign of insanity? Probably.