Body Fighting Back

My worst fears may be coming true - I may be allergic to exercising. 

I love running and really feel like it has become my new obsession. In the past 5 weeks I have worked hard to build stamina and prepare for the 5K that I am going to run for work next month.

While I was in Dallas, I ran two days in a row and found the roads to be extremely dangerous and hard to follow. Being someone who is prone to injury (I have had sprained ankles, twisted knees, and broken toes) I have to be careful when I am out sprinting through the streets. If I don't look down while I am running I will find myself sprawled face down on the pavement like a homeless drunk.

Dodging cracks, uplifted sidewalks, and speeding cars are just some of the obstacles runners face who'd rather run outside in the fresh air then face a wall running on a treadmill. I hate running on a treadmill. I'd rather take my chances out in the streets but I am afraid those days are numbered.

I had to cut both my runs short in Dallas because after running 1.5 miles I had to turn around and walk back. My right knee was throbbing and my left ankle was swollen up like it was twisted. I may be getting old (and my memory may be failing me at times) but I don't remember injuring myself outside. I pushed through the pain and swallowed Advil like candy but the swelling and pain didn't really kick in until I was flying home on Monday. The pressure from the flight and not having my ankle elevated ballooned me up like the elephant man. It was uncomfortable and unpleasant and I just knew I was going to have to take some time off from running.

The doctor informed me it was either my gout or swelling from overuse of the ankle. Running. My body has basically started fighting back. My body is telling me, 'Sit on the sofa and eat ice cream or be forced to because I will nflame your joints and causing you pain whenever I can.'

My body hates me and I will be honest, I am not a big fan of my lower extremities at this point.