Low back pain is a common problem in active populations, but I rarely see runners with back pain—and when I do, it’s often a bone stress injury (BSI). When a runner reports a gradual onset of unilateral back pain, I’m immediately concerned about a potential sacral stress fracture (SSF). Although rare in the general public, these often occur in endurance …
I use the phrase “challenging but manageable” about every day. It perfectly describes the intensity and focus I want when working with patients or starting the next business project. Being just on the edge of discomfort is the goal. But being on the edge of your abilities can be a tricky balance. If you never push, you won’t accomplish the …
Let’s run! Once you’ve knocked out the principles I covered in the first two blogs (HERE and HERE) in this navicular stress fracture (NSF) series, we move on to the fun part. In this final blog, let’s dive into how to return to running, training, and competition. I hope I’ve made a good case for a progressive rehab program. Once …
My mom had a kidney transplant when I was in 2nd grade. Three decades of recovery have meant many doctors, medications, and side effects. A few weeks back, I went with her to a cardiology appointment after she had some concerning blood work. Needing to meet with a medical specialist usually is unwanted and stressful. As we walked into Research …
Rehabbing a broken foot is no small task, and navicular stress fractures (NSFs) are particularly challenging. My last blog covered considerations of deciding on surgery or going the conservative route. Today, let’s focus on the critical elements of a successful rehab program. Key Principle One: Absolute Rest NSFs require absolute rest whether you have surgery or not. Complete non-weight bearing in a …
You feel a bit of soreness on your foot as you finish up your Thursday morning run. Nothing you haven’t felt before, probably just your stubborn plantar fascia acting up. You add a few stretches to your warm-up, roll your foot out with a massage ball, and hope the pain goes away. Unfortunately, it doesn’t. The pain worsens to the …
Beep! The alarm clock at your weekend hotel buzzes you awake. Traveling for work guarantees a night of less than stellar sleep. You’ve got a meeting that could’ve been an email at nine AM, giving you just enough time to sneak in a morning run. You lace up your Saucony’s, trudge down to the elevator, and slowly plod along the …
