More Than a Little Set Back

As I mentioned in an earlier post I was attacked by a shampoo bottle in the shower about a week and a half ago.  Whatever damage it did initially, the half marathon seemed to have only made things worse.  While I wasn’t running in pain during the race, it sure has come on strong since.  I had made the decision prior to the race that I wouldn’t run for at least five days, just to ensure I would get a decent recovery period, but my foot is telling me (as well as the doctor) something completely different.

I went yesterday morning to get the advice of a professional.  He sent me for x-rays on the foot.  Today I am heading to a specialist for a more in depth perspective on what could possibly be a stress fracture in the third metatarsal in the left foot.  The doctor said it appeared in the scans that there is in fact a small break, but he wanted an orthopedic opinion to get a better diagnosis.  Family doctor said, “No running until you’ve seen ortho.” 

So I go today, in hopes that the dark mark on the x-ray isn’t a real break, but I am expecting just that.  With the way my foot feels, I’d be shocked if it wasn’t actually broken.  It is difficult to walk, stand, pivot, and even lie down.  The nurse took my blood pressure yesterday and I was shocked that it was 135/88 - which is actually pretty high for me (I’m usually around 117/65), but from what I understand, pain can do some strange things to the body.  I haven’t slept well the last two nights either - pain spikes randomly and keeps me awake.  I’m running on just over 2 hours sleep right now.

What this has done has made me rethink my goals for the year.  Will I be able to hit that 900 mile mark by the end of the year?  If I’m out for six weeks with a broken toe bone, probably not.  Will I be able to run the Flying Pig with my wife?  Most likely not.  Will I be able to run the Air Force Marathon in September?  Not sure.  Only time and doctors will tell.  Set back?  Absolutely, and not one I’m happy with.