Phew...

Isn't she pretty? This is the contraption that I was lucky enough to take home from my podiarist appointment today. The good news is I don't have to stop training, I just need to take it easy and do as Dr. Dan says. Which is to wear this boot 10 minutes a day on each foot. "Anything more than that is a waste of time."

I have to say, Dr. Dan Altchuler is fantastic and was everything I hoped for in a podiatrist- friendly, fun, personable, informative and most important, assuring, supportive, kind and helpful.

He told me all sorts of things about the way I walk and the mechanics of my feet, ankles, shins, etc. Of course I don't remember all of it, but basically he confirmed what I believed to be the case. That I have shin splints and plantar fasciitis and need to stretch. He really and truly believes that if I use the boot as I am supposed to, that in three weeks I should see a significant difference and that I may not need orthotics. So I'm back on December 21st.

Honestly though, I am loving this guy. He was so excited to hear that I'm running the marathon and said he'll help me with the training and can put me in touch with some good trainers.

Tomorrow I'll get back in the game with another run.