Stepping Back to Move Forward

Back in January, I thought I had strained my left medial meniscus. Rest, icing, foam rolling and PT exercises seem to get me back on track. That is until about a month or so ago, then the knee started to not feel so good again, but I could manage it, with some days being better than others. After a miserable 4-mile run a week ago I had to face reality that something else might be going on.

So I went to see an orthopedist and she confirmed that it’s that pesky meniscus again. She’s pretty certain there’s a tear, but only an MRI will confirm it for sure. Then we can figure out the next steps – “We’ll get you running right again” she assured me. I liked that she’s a runner too – we chatted about running and racing – she gets it.

But for now I have to take a step back – she confirmed my suspicion that running the Newport 10-miler is not a good choice. We’re going to play wait and see on the RTR 5-miler.

Am I frustrated? Absolutely – I love that Newport course. And I’d be lying if I didn’t say part of me just wants to have a big ole pity party. But, I’m taking a long-term view…my goal race for this year is Rock ‘n’ Roll Philly…and my overall goal is to have a long-term relationship with running.

Moving forward1

The good news is  while I wait for my MRI, I can continue to do my strength workouts, cardio (hello Arc Trainer!), and short easy runs, (as long as there’s no pain).

So I do what I need to do now, so I can do what I want to do later.

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Comments

  1. oh I am right there with you. Been there lately. It’s hard to pass up on a race you trained for but you have to listen to your body. Giving up today for want tomorrow isn’t always easy. Speedy recovery friend!
    Deborah @ Confessions of a Mother Runner recently posted…How To Pack For A Ragnar & How NOT To Train For OneMy Profile

  2. Oh crap, Michelle, I’m so sorry to hear this. Wish I were closer I’d come and pity party with you. You are wise to pull back now, and hopefully all will be well for your goal race. Wishing you all the best with whatever the MRI reveals. xoxo
    Marcia recently posted…In Praise of a 7 Minute WorkoutMy Profile

  3. I had to pass up a run I was registered for last year due to an injury. Just take it easy and listen to your body. I’m sure you’d much rather miss one race than not be able to run again, ever.
    Praying it heals fast. It’s a blessing that you have a doc who is also a runner.
    Amy @ Running on Faith & Coffee recently posted…Best Race Ever {ToTR Linkup}My Profile

  4. Aw…I’m really sorry this is what you’re facing. I hope it is something that can be rehabbed as opposed to surgery. Best of luck!
    misszippy recently posted…The difference between fit and fastMy Profile

  5. Oh no! So sorry to hear this ! I hope a tear is NOT the case!! Healing thoughts being sent your way!

  6. Ugh, so frustrating. I hope the MRI yields a good diagnosis so you can get better once and for all.
    Coco (@Got2Run4Me) recently posted…Sauteed Swiss Chard With EggsMy Profile

  7. Oh Michelle!
    I will say a prayer that everything heals quickly. You are being really smart by listening to the doc and your body. It’s always a huge bummer to miss a race, but better to get this sorted out now. I also hope you can heal without surgery.
    I love your positive attitude!
    Natalie recently posted…Marathons, Ultras, Ironmans…She rocks it all!My Profile

  8. Oh I’m so sorry to hear about your meniscus! I hope you can on the right track for recovery soon!
    Janelle @ Run With No Regrets recently posted…1/2 Sauer 1/2 Kraut Half Marathon Week 4My Profile

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