Symptoms:
Base of foot, heel, arch. Anything from sharp pain to constant dull ache. Often felt in morning, during non-running as well as running.Treating pain:
NSAIDs (ibuprofen), gel (ibuprofen or diclofenac), ice pack, ice bottle, cortisone injection (for some - seems to treat symptoms but not cause?)Treating cause:
Immediate rest from running, stretch calves, stretch base of foot, stretch hamstrings, night splint to keep foot stretched at night, arch/sole massage, golf ball rollering, pedi roller (or other massage devices e.g. The Stick)These slant boards are pretty useful for stretching tight calves. Stick it in the bathroom and stand on it when you clean your teeth. Link (roll over me to see where I go)
Removing cause long term (can possibly build running back up during this?):
Change work shoes, change running shoes, insoles/orthotics (for some), minimalist shoes (for others!), barefoot (for some), never barefoot (for others!), run with toes splayed (to avoid pushing off toes), avoid stairs and hills (pushing off toes), usual things too: don't build up mileage, speed or different terrain (e.g. hills) too quickly.Prognosis (or will I ever run again...?!)
Yes! Lots of great examples of people out from just a few weeks, to many months, who have got back to successfully running, and running well. Keep the faith!
G