I am now 6 weeks in from an incomplete stress fracture to the heel bone (overuse - too many ultras I suspect!) Found out via MRI after 4 weeks and wore an air cast boot for 2 weeks. Have had no pain for 2-3 weeks now. Initially my physio said 6-8 weeks but then a foot and ankle clinician said that all fractures take 3 months to heal properly. Having already missed several races I am wondering how soon I should return to running and how I should approach the build up to get back to normal. During the 6 weeks off I have been aqua jogging with a flotation belt 4 times a week, swimming and cycling (in the gym). Hoping I haven't lost too much fitness! I have London Marathon in less than 3 weeks so I guess that's out too. Any other runners been through this and can give some advice? Thanks!
I would not run at all between now and the marathon - your foot needs complete rest. PF takes a notoriously long time to heal. My husband had it for several months. He found that taping his foot really helped though - there are plenty of videos on youtube showing you how to tape for PF - maybe give it a try? Good luck anyway. I can sympathise, having been out of action for 6 weeks now with a heel bone stress fracture. Have missed several races so far and VLM looks very unlikely.
I won't be running - MRI this week revealed a stress fracture of the heel bone Good luck to everyone running and if any friends or family need a number and want to run, let me know!
Good to see you are all getting the miles in. I had a good Jan but got injured 3 weeks ago - ankle - and haven't run since. Pulled out of Llanelli 40 mile 2 weeks ago and looks like I'll be spectating at Rome marathon next week. Have booked MRI so fingers crossed I can get to the bottom of it soon. Next goal London. Has anyone else had time out for injury and still made the start line for Comrades?