Achilles Tendonitis and Shoe Type
by Peter Sandler
(NY, NY, USA)
I am just getting over a case of achilles tendonitis. It started about a week after I ran the NJ Marathon. I gave it about five weeks rest (just elliptical machine, no running) and did the ice, rest, heat thing also anti-inflammatories.
It feels a lot better and I just started some light running today with a brace. I am about a week away from getting into my training program for the Hartford Marathon and was wondering what is the best running shoe for this injury?
I run in the Brooks Glycerin. Is this a good shoe?

Answer by Dominique:Hi Peter,
Thanks for your running question.
It sounds like you have been really sensible with your
achilles tendinitis.
The only remaining question I have is what would have caused this running injury to begin with. Were you overdoing it (too much mileage, too much hill work, was the marathon a little too much for you) or was it your footwear?
Some Other Pages on This Site |
Brooks running shoes are quality and the Brooks Glycerin is one of their more popular
neutral running shoes.
Neutral running shoes are great for you if you have a high arch.
When you have a high arch, your foot does not collapse enough when it lands, causing extra upward pressure on your achilles and lower legs.
Neutral running shoes generally have a softer mid-sole that allow your foot to have a more natural foot motion.
So, if you have a high arch, the Brooks Glycerin could very well be a suitable shoe for you. If you however don't happen to have a high arch, then the Brooks Glycerin may not be what you need.
Make sure to check out my
How to Choose Running Shoes page which will provide you with a range of choices given your foot type, mileage, weight, etc.
Additionally, you can go to a specialist foot store and ask them to test your foot type so you can be a bit surer about your shoes.
Best of luck in that marathon and I hope the achilles tendinitis stays away!
Cheers,
Dominique