He also told me to toss the orthodics because he didn't think all "that stuff" was necessary.

I would say toss the doc because HE'S not necessary.

Jlynne, I've been in your shoes, pretty much literally, so I know how it feels. Ten years ago I had a PT tell me that because of my cervical arthritis, I should never try to run again. And I had the same reaction as you did, tears welling up on this death sentence diagnosis. So at his suggestion I learned how to race walk, and was miserable. Eventually I eased back into running... and NEVER had any neck issues since. So don't let the word of just one medical professional make you feel you need to throw away your entire life.

Wildchild, I'm of the same opinion, and that's why I do my wacky one-sided yoga, and see a zero balancing expert who also happens to be a licensed physical therapist. I won't go to anyone else. Twocat, I understand what you're saying, that piriformis syndrome may not exist as a real ailment, but the pain that people feel, that's real. And there's got to be a way to not be living in constant and still do the activities we want to do.

Attitude, Alignment and Action. I really believe it all boils down to these three A's, and all three need to be present while pursuing the solution.

Sorry about the lousy doc, Jeanne. At the very least his manner was poor and he did not think about things very deeply.    As for the orthotics, we are all different.  For some ailments perhaps they are overused, but after a very serious bout of post-tib tendonitis a  while back, I would not run without mine.  They are soft, take up some space in my shoes, but they don't bother me and    I think they help.  

Not sure about an official syndrome, but piriformis pain certainly exists. My theory is that it usually stems from a back issue; the real diagnosis likely involves the lower back.

Do have access to a sports medicine doc or a good PT?? that might be a big help.

I hope things get better.

{{{Jlynne}}}

I would never go see my primary doc for anything running related, but of course you have to do that first to get a referral.  All she ever says is "are you taking enough calcium?"  I could be complaining of anything and that would be her answer.

Stupid dog is barking at some clothes on a chair....or maybe he is having a nightmare.

Anyway, ran 5 sunny muddy miles on the mountain this morning.  I thought the ground would be frozen but it wasn't.  I was hoping for 7 miles but decided to quit before I started to hate it.  This is about enjoyment, not suffering, right?

Lots of great support and good advice for you here JLynne so I'll just add a big ((((((JLynne)))))). I know you are frustrated and upset and it seems as if you will never feel good while running again. You will get back to better running days, just wish I could tell you exactly when. 

Angry Bill! (((((Breger))))) not you too....shoot! Don't run too angry though...as tempting as it is.

The melting continues here and the 4 feet of snow is maybe down to 2 feet. I won't see the lawn anytime soon, but temps. in the high 50s with sun today is a delight. Ran 11.8 easy paced miles just before noon today. Mr. CNYrunner is out of town and I wedged the run in between conference calls and the kiddo's return from school and it felt great to be out there. I ran to a nearby park and ran a couple loops in the park as other "Forget the (Cabin) Fever Friday" folks were out walking dogs, pushing jog strollers and just breathing it in. One of my former professors was in the park doing his regular walk laps---at 92 years-old now, he trucks along and always has a big wave for me. I get a bit stressed even though I did very well in his class and love seeing him---I can't help but think I've forgotten to write a paper or something. I guess once a nerd, always a nerd!

No long weekend plans for me. Hockey mom duty tomorrow. Hockey Day in America tomorrow people! 

http://www.nhl.com/ice/news.htm?id=531159

Then a super granny visit and then fly to CA for work on Sunday. Of course, running miles will be covered too.

Sounds like a fun weekend Holly!

Just my 2 cents for what its worth.

Last year, if you remember, I had 2 stress fractures in the same foot. I was told at the time of my first xray that sometimes you cannot see them until they start to heal and leave a trace. Sure enough I went in 6 weeks later and they showed up on the second xray bright as day.

 Secondly I would never go to a doctor that did not at least respect my running. My doctor who is not a runner or even a sports doctor does nothing but encourage my running as he knows its my main excersize and that keeps me healthy. He always adresses anything that I say is keeping me from my running. As a matter of fact after my recent heart issues it was my primary doctor that was concerned about how long the cardiologist was keeping me from running.

 I also go along with the 6 week rule on most running related injuries. It does seem to be the general healling time doesn't it ?

Good luck {{{{{{Jlynnn}}}}}

 my Grandson Ben, son of Econo, is now, after over two months in the hospital, home.  Yey!   

FANTASTIC NEWS! Thanks so much for letting us know. Tomorrow will be a grand day. Good thoughts to all of you.

Woods lady,  thanks so much for the update

Jlynne,   so sorry about the Doc with the poor bedside manner. as others have said,  an Xray usually will not show a stress fracture, but a bone scan is a relatively inexpensive procedure(much cheaper than a MRI) that will show one.  It is too bad you couldn't get a referral for one. 

Orthotics  in many cases are a little controversial.  podiatrists probably say 99% of the population could benefit from orthos.   I think mine help me a lot, but my insurance does not cover them.  if they were to break, I would try going back to not using them.

Good luck.

Dave