Running (pain in ankle after half marathon)

by Micheil
(Hendersonville, TN)

I just finished my 1st half marathon. "came in 4th in my age group'; however the next day my left achilles tendon, my left ankles are killing me. 3 weeks later same pain. I ran 10 k on Monday, the pain was about a 7 out of 10, today Friday ran 10 k and the pain about 12 out of 10. No sharp pain just constant, left ankle, back of my calf, and now the top of my thigh. When I flex my toes on my left foot up, the pain begins. I have been icing. I really enjoy running, but the pain not so much. Is this something I just need to run through and build up muscles. I really do not want to get involved with steroid shots which a number of my running folks have suggested. Anything else you think I should look at.

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Running (pain in ankle after half marathon)

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Nov 09, 2009
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pain with running
by: Bart - SII

You didn't describe any specific mechanism of injury - one instant that started the pain like a twist or turn. With that said, there may be some flexibility or biomechanic things going on in the lower extremity that is over-stressing the left achilles and ankle.

It might be worth while to see a doctor about this, since it has been going on for several weeks now without improvement. There are a host of things to look at from a functional standpoint that could be contributing to your pain. Flexibility and mobility of the entire lower extremity can contribute to achilles and ankle pain. This includes the hip, low back, and the ankle.

I would recommend getting this looked at and having a good biomechanical exam to figure out where the stresses are coming from. Achilles pain can be an indicator of biomechanical problems, and if left untreated, the achilles can become stressed enough and weak enough to eventually rupture.

Bart