GREAT NEWS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WOO-HOO!!! I have chills, goosebumps, and even a tear or two in my eyes. Today's appointment with the podiatrist went better than I expected. First, my self diagnosis of plantar facitis back in January was correct! Yes, the quack of a podiatrist I saw back then incorrectly diagnosed me with achilles tendonitis. To his credit, the extremely painful cortisone injection he gave me worked well. I now know that the tingly feeling and feeling like there's something in my shoe at the ball of my foot is a result of what is called "Morton's Neuroma." Here's the link if you're curious about what it is...http://www.footphysicians.com/footankleinfo/mortons-neuroma.htm. What does all this mean for me? It means I can start some serious half marathon and marathon training again. I spent $65 on a pair of medical grade orthotics, which are sitting pretty in my shoes as I'm typing this! They can be removed and used in any shoes I'm wearing. I also was happy to hear that I don't need to buy running shoes for overpronation. The podiatrist said to buy regular running shoes, and use the orthotics if I experience any pain. The $65 will obviously be money well spent. I'm off from work this week for spring break. I'm planning on reading my Jeff Galloway book and figuring out a training schedule so I can run the 4 races I have in the "Upcoming Races" section of my blog. Plus I will definitely attempt a long run later on this week, using the run-walk-run training. Even though I now know that there's nothing seriously wrong with my heel and foot, I still believe that is the best training program for me. Now, as long as I don't wake up and discover this is all a dream, I'll be good!! :-)