Self-diagnosed strained Achilles tendon. I am pretty certain that is what I have. The pain only shows up after I’ve run 3+ miles. When it’s time for my next running session I am barely able to get a mile before it kicks in.
And I will not let this pain beat me. I cannot get injured again. Being on the bench eats at my soul. So, I take it easy for a few days. Let the tendon heal. Add in some intense stretching and foam rolling too. Usually, it works.
The question
How do I prevent this pain in the first place? My initial analysis points to an issue with my form. But that cannot be the problem because my weekly mileage is increasing 🙂 yet the problem only occurs on the long runs.
The second theory is that as I get into the longer runs my form degrades to the point of triggering this problem. This is more likely. Thinking through the issue.
Do you see my dilemma? If theory #2 is correct, how do I prevent this from occurring?
My thoughts:
- Better and targeted pre- & post- training stretching
- Calf strength training
- Review my form by videotaping my next long run
Any ideas would be helpful.