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I wish...but another timeI vwill never give advice on skipping the Meseta...
Thanks Davey - I will look into it!If I had to lay up for a while in the area Burgos-Leon-Astorga it would be at the wonderful albergue La Finca in Poblacion de Campos a few km from Fromista. Wonderful place, private sleeping places, great food, nice family. Many would choose cities, but I don't like them much. It is a private albergue so no problem staying a while. They might like a little help too if you ask.
Get well soon, wherever you go enjoy your rest
Davey
I vwill never give advice on skipping the Meseta...
Hi and thanks for your reply. I hesitated about posting about this issue as in my reading of many other posts I see judgemental replies - and I hoped that people would consider my question in the spirit it was intended. I am not planning to be a tourist or to have a holiday -norhaveisuggested that the Meseta is boring. I am genuinely aiming to balance an injury with a pilgrimage. So don’t be ‘sad’ at what you perceive about my intentions please.When I see questions about skipping the "boring" or tough bits of a Camino it makes me feel sad. Sure, if you want to be a tourist then skip ahead and cherry pick the Camino, you'll have a lovely holiday. But if you want to get the most out of the Camino pick a start point that fits your fitness and time constraints and you will get the satisfaction of finishing what you started.
@mary_mh if you are worried about your knee then don't start at SJPP, crossing over the Pyrenees is going to give you far more problems then the Meseta. You don't have to start the French Route at the border. Why not take few days and visit Le Puy and St Jean before starting walking at Burgos, or wherever you feel you can manage. Then take shorter days and do your writing in the afternoon. You'll put less stress on your body and have more time to walk, think and write.
Thanks! Hard decisions indeed...Well, with this "Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections " I would definitely NOT walk from Astorga and over the hills into Galicia. On the contrary exactly the Meseta would be my choice even after 2 weeks rest. But I would probably go home and return later with hopefully completely healed knee.
Anyway Buen Camino!
Hi and thanks Mike! I’m actually still at home and under specialist orthopaedic care, planning on leaving next week. I’m really reluctant to let go of that first week as I’m doing it with my son - just for one week. I’ve waited so long to do it. My doctor supports my decision but advises me to be guided by pain. Which I will do. But I have to try. Then I’ll rest it for a whileHola @mary_mh ; I am not a medico, but I would agree with some of the above comments - three meniscal tears, plus associated issues is definitely not incidental. That first day from St Jean to Roncesvalles via Orisson is potentially the most difficult day of the whole camino. Even the climb up the Alto del Perdon west of Pamplona is a tough climb. Starting in Burgos might be better. But for me it might be a case of "bight the bullet" and go home to seek expert medical advice and then allow the problem to heal. Cheers
That was my thought. I don't get the point of walking the hills with a bad knee and skipping the flatter parts.@mary_mh if you are worried about your knee then don't start at SJPP, crossing over the Pyrenees is going to give you far more problems then the Meseta. You don't have to start the French Route at the border. Why not take few days and visit Le Puy and St Jean before starting walking at Burgos, or wherever you feel you can manage. Then take shorter days and do your writing in the afternoon. You'll put less stress on your body and have more time to walk, think and write.
I'm not a doctor, far from it but I seriously injured my both knees in my youth in rock climbing accident. I'm always very careful because I don't want to end up in a wheelchair (which was 50:50 prediction when it happened) before I'll walk at least another 10 Caminos...
My doctor supports my decision but advises me to be guided by pain. Which I will do. But I have to try. Then I’ll rest it for a while. Thank you for your thoughts
Thanks for sharing this Kinky One - it really touches me and I can see I have some hard thinking to do. I am so disappointed, and maybe there’s a lesson to be learnt there about my expectations. Maybe I can rest up somewhere nice and walk a stage later (I have 2 months), and return to other stages in years to come. I’m in my 60’s and have this sense of urgency that I’ll have to try and let go of it. As you say, the Camino will still be thereI'm not a doctor, far from it but I did seriously injured my both knees in my youth in rock climbing accident. I'm always very careful because I don't want to end up in a wheelchair (which was 50:50 prediction when it happened) before I'll walk at least another 10 Caminos
As a Camino junkie I can understand your anticipation about walking it but just let me tell you a short story about my first (attempt at) Camino Frances althought I might sound as a broken record because I've already mentioned it a few times in similar threads. Yes I admit I was training for the Camino, stupid me. And while jogging in the city streets I sprained my ankle. Because it has happened to me so many times before (playing basketball mainly) I just limped around and didn't rest because I thought it'll be OK and also I have had so much work at that time, the plane tickets were bought and so on. I went on that Camino with my mom and already at Stansted airport staff offered me special attention and wheelchair etc. So it looked serious enough to others although "I'm THE tough guy". No, no, no, I don't need anything...
I limped in tears (despite the Ibuprofeno etc.) to Logrono where the doctor told me to go home or I'll never walk normaly again in my life because I had already ripped ankle ligaments. She said: "Camino will be here, don't you worry!" I did go home eventually, crying (I was 39 then).
Two years later I returned (sadly without my mom) and it was the time of my life. The rest is history which you can find under this post in my signature. I still feel some uneasiness with my ankle but I can walk. Oh, yes I can!!!
Do you want too?
De nada, Mary!Thanks for sharing this Kinky One - it really touches me and I can see I have some hard thinking to do. I am so disappointed, and maybe there’s a lesson to be learnt there about my expectations. Maybe I can rest up somewhere nice and walk a stage later (I have 2 months), and return to other stages in years to come. I’m in my 60’s and have this sense of urgency that I’ll have to try and let go of it. As you say, the Camino will still be thereThanks so much
I have a friend who walked his first Camino for his 75th birthday. And his second for his 76th. And his third this year for his 77th...Thanks for sharing this Kinky One - it really touches me and I can see I have some hard thinking to do. I am so disappointed, and maybe there’s a lesson to be learnt there about my expectations. Maybe I can rest up somewhere nice and walk a stage later (I have 2 months), and return to other stages in years to come. I’m in my 60’s and have this sense of urgency that I’ll have to try and let go of it. As you say, the Camino will still be thereThanks so much
This is a conundrum, to be sure. As others have said, the ups and downs in the first part of the Frances would be much harder on your injured knee than the meseta (which is by no means completely flat, but definitely less wrinkled.I can see I have some hard thinking to do. I am so disappointed, and maybe there’s a lesson to be learnt there about my expectations. Maybe I can rest up somewhere nice and walk a stage later (I have 2 months), and return to other stages in years to come. I’m in my 60’s and have this sense of urgency that I’ll have to try and let go of it. As you say, the Camino will still be there
Santo Domingo de Silos isn't on Camino FrancesThis is a conundrum, to be sure. As others have said, the ups and downs in the first part of the Frances would be much harder on your injured knee than the meseta (which is by no means completely flat, but definitely less wrinkled.
I'm not clear on your timeline: you had planned to walk with your son for the first week, yes? And finishing in Santiago?
It may pay to think outside the box: for example, start in Santo Domingo de Silos instead of SJPP, walk across the meseta, and then up to Rabinal, staying there for a retreat if your knee is feeling the strain. But defitely do not hesitate to take a taxi past the most punishing downhill bits (for example, Acebo to Molinaseca)
Well, of course I am very well aware of that, and meant what I said.Santo Domingo de Silos isn't on Camino Frances
Indeed she mentioned that. My bad. SorryWell, of course I am very well aware of that, and meant what I said.
The OP had mentioned staying there, and it is a nice walk from there to Burgos....
You can't be a bad pilgrim, K1. That name's already taken.My bad. Sorry
You can't be a bad pilgrim, K1. That name's already taken.
Well, there is nothing to forgive - you just made a mistake. But thank you anyway.
What about letting your son walking but you taking a public transport on steep sections (downhill mostly of course)?
Great suggestions! Thanks. Lots to consider. Timeline was to do SJPP to Pamplona with my son, week one. Then he has to return to London and I was going to carry on to Santiago over the next 6 or so weeks.This is a conundrum, to be sure. As others have said, the ups and downs in the first part of the Frances would be much harder on your injured knee than the meseta (which is by no means completely flat, but definitely less wrinkled.
I'm not clear on your timeline: you had planned to walk with your son for the first week, yes? And finishing in Santiago?
It may pay to think outside the box: for example, start in Santo Domingo de Silos instead of SJPP, walk across the meseta, and then up to Rabinal, staying there for a retreat if your knee is feeling the strain. The Benedictine monks there have a guest house where you can take retreat time. But definitely do not hesitate to take a taxi past the most punishing downhill bits (for example, Acebo to Molinaseca)
Nor would I!!I vwill never give advice on skipping the Meseta...
You are wise to protect your body and health. But - you simply must walk the Meseta sometime. Not advice just my opinion.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
Hi Mary, sorry to hear that you're suffering from those injuries, it's bound to make you stop and rest - which is a good thing. It's very hot out there, and this week temperatures are rising again.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
I’m thinking of taking the bourricot shuttle from SJPP halfway to Roncesvalles
I had knee issues when I walked the Camino (although I suspect not nearly so bad as yours). I will agree with others that, respecting your decision to take it easy on the knees, the places to skip to protect your knees are not necessarily on the Meseta, a message that the quote above shows you've received. So perhaps it might be useful to point out some of the regions that my memory calls to mind as particularly challenging for the knees.Thanks everyone for responding. You’ve made me rethink the Meseta. This will be my first Camino and I suppose I mistakenly thought that the Meseta was one of the hardest sections physically. But sounds like it might be a good section for me.
I’m thinking of taking the bourricot shuttle from SJPP halfway to Roncesvalles, which would leave me 12k. I think with my knee brace and poles this might be manageable. Then short sections to Pamplona.
Have you walked the Meseta before? It is not by any stretch the hardest on the knees. Though I don’t like the Meseta personally, the walking itself is pretty easy for most people.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
It just may need to be part of your son’s Camino that he has to give up something too - either walk a flat bit with you (and go back to do the other bit once you stop) or miss out on walking with his mum/mom. If you did OK on the flatter parts maybe you too could backtrack, and if not, at least you’re likely to have given yourself a greater chance of succeeding.
2 years ago my husband had a bad mussel in Castrojeriz forcing us to leave the Camino in Fromista for Leon and medical care. After 4 days we were able to continue walking to Santiago. We return to Spain on 9/21 to walk from Fromista to Leon. The meseta beckons!Nor me usually. Its my favorite part! But sometimes needs must. Most people with an injury just go home not hole up for 10-14 days and carry on, so kudos there.
Davey
Hola @mary_mh ; I am not a medico, but I would agree with some of the above comments - three meniscal tears, plus associated issues is definitely not incidental. That first day from St Jean to Roncesvalles via Orisson is potentially the most difficult day of the whole camino. Even the climb up the Alto del Perdon west of Pamplona is a tough climb. Starting in Burgos might be better. But for me it might be a case of "bight the bullet" and go home to seek expert medical advice and then allow the problem to heal. Cheers
Great suggestions Marky, and really helpful information, thanks!Hi Mary, sorry to hear that you're suffering from those injuries, it's bound to make you stop and rest - which is a good thing. It's very hot out there, and this week temperatures are rising again.
As you have complicated knee injuries, the stages after the Meseta would likely cause more difficulty than the Meseta. It's not so much the inclines, but the descents are steep and rugged in many places, especially into Molinaseca (although the longer descent by road avoids the really rough and rocky path). From Molinaseca to Vega del Valcarce is relatively flat, but after that it's 'rock and roll' all the way to SdC, although after O'Cebreiro the hills are less extreme - but it's rarely flat for very long.
So, for your knees to be less loaded, the Meseta would be far easier. There is a short hill just after Castrojeriz with a short but steep descent on to the plains beyond. The main difficulty of the Meseta for someone with knee issues would be the distances between some towns or villages, which can mean you might have to walk longer distances before you can stopover anywhere.
If it were me, I would probably use those 14 days to rest and then walk short flat sections of the Camino only and explore more of the sites, culture and summer fiestas etc. So perhaps the first 5 - 7 days resting and physio in a town/village with a variety of facilities and places of interest such as: Castrojeriz, Frómista, Sahagún, Villarente, León, Hospital del Órbigo, Astorga. As it's hot, maybe look for villages and albergues with swimming pools - great physiotherapy for knees and body in general. You don't have to stay in the same towns/villages every day of rest. A bus or taxi (depending on budget) to another town might be a more enjoyable way to pass the time while still resting your body.
Then, depending on how you feel, time available etc. maybe you could consider a coach to Sarria (or further back from Triacastela via Samos to Saria) and join the hordes for the last 100km, it's not everyone's cup of tea, but in your condition having lots of company and support nearby would give you some feeling of security to continue the last part and still earn your Compostela certificate (should you wish to have one).
If by that time your knees are coping well and you have days spare before going home, then you could consider doing part of the SdC - Muxia - Fisterra - SdC loop.
Just a few suggestions for you, I hope it helps.
A big Camino pilgrim hug to you,
Mark
Great!! Thanks, great to know.Just another heads-up on that section. When you start the descent (over the cattle grid and past the coffee stall) the signs point to quite a steep downhill path. If you go right on the road, it meanders down gently. Longer but better on the knees. Road joins the main SJPP/Roncevalles road about a mile or so above the village.
Thanks David. This is really helpful information.I had knee issues when I walked the Camino (although I suspect not nearly so bad as yours). I will agree with others that, respecting your decision to take it easy on the knees, the places to skip to protect your knees are not necessarily on the Meseta, a message that the quote above shows you've received. So perhaps it might be useful to point out some of the regions that my memory calls to mind as particularly challenging for the knees.
Some of those parts are right at the beginning: the descent to Zubiri between Roncesvalles and Pamplona, the descent from the Alto de Perdon between Pamplona and Puente la Reina. If it were me with the bad knee, I might check and see if my son was willing to walk from Puente la Reina to Logroño instead of SJPP to Pamplona.
Other sections that you might want to watch out for are from the Cruz de Ferro to Molinaseca and from O Cebreiro to Triacastela around the west end of the Castilla Leon and the east end of Galicia. When I had a bad knee I took advantage of the bike rentals in O Cebreiro and biked to Triacastela, spending a day as a bicigrino.
Thanks Ed, really encouraging.I just finished the Meseta in June and enjoyed it immensely, it is flat, forgiving and a great opportunity to discover sides of oneself that lay hidden. Consider it your go to place as it will be kind to your knees and if done with common sense will give you great joy and satisfaction.
I agree- these days the things I read in this forum make me realise that the Camino is just a slightly exciting holiday to these people.When I see questions about skipping the "boring" or tough bits of a Camino it makes me feel sad. Sure, if you want to be a tourist then skip ahead and cherry pick the Camino, you'll have a lovely holiday. But if you want to get the most out of the Camino pick a start point that fits your fitness and time constraints and you will get the satisfaction of finishing what you started.
@mary_mh if you are worried about your knee then don't start at SJPP, crossing over the Pyrenees is going to give you far more problems then the Meseta. You don't have to start the French Route at the border. Why not take few days and visit Le Puy and St Jean before starting walking at Burgos, or wherever you feel you can manage. Then take shorter days and do your writing in the afternoon. You'll put less stress on your body and have more time to walk, think and write.
The first 2 (or 3) days (between SJPP and Zubiri), and then the day out of Pamplona would be hard on your knee. @LTfit 's right, that descent to Uterga is terrible. Loose rolling rocks about the size of grapefruit or oranges make it so much fun.Timeline was to do SJPP to Pamplona with my son, week one.
That was my thought. I don't get the point of walking the hills with a bad knee and skipping the flatter parts.
Noo! Don't do that, get your knee better, then go and do the whole thing, that's my advice. Placebo to Molinaseca is one of my favourite bits- so beautiful! Best wishes..This is a conundrum, to be sure. As others have said, the ups and downs in the first part of the Frances would be much harder on your injured knee than the meseta (which is by no means completely flat, but definitely less wrinkled.
I'm not clear on your timeline: you had planned to walk with your son for the first week, yes? And finishing in Santiago?
It may pay to think outside the box: for example, start in Santo Domingo de Silos instead of SJPP, walk across the meseta, and then up to Rabinal, staying there for a retreat if your knee is feeling the strain. The Benedictine monks there have a guest house where you can take retreat time. But definitely do not hesitate to take a taxi past the most punishing downhill bits (for example, Acebo to Molinaseca)
(Acebo, not placebo!)Noo! Don't do that, get your knee better, then go and do the whole thing, that's my advice. Placebo to Molinaseca is one of my favourite bits- so beautiful! Best wishes..
Your body is telling you its time for a rest. If you push it, you may end up punishing your body further andmay not complete your journey. I skipped the meseta, took a few days off in Leon, and a few more in Santiago. Glad I did, i got to see and do so much more, especially in Santiago. Buen Camino.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
There is no 'whole thing;' St Jean is a totally arbitrary starting point. So unless your pilgrimage is to a certain Hollywood movie, any place wil do. The point is to begin, and walk.do the whole thing
Especially downhill.That was my thought. I don't get the point of walking the hills with a bad knee and skipping the flatter parts.
You didn't say how long ago you injured your knee. Having done the same myself some years ago, I was off work six weeks with physio before I went back to work (as a teacher, on my feet most of the day). I was cycling, but no way could I have tramped up and down hills. And whoever said check your insurance is right. As this is a pre-existing condition, if you needed to be evacuated from some spot in the Pyrenees because you weren't able to continue you'd bear the entire cost.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
As already advised I would be inclined to start around Estella to Burgos which is much less strenuous than from SJPD . I finished in Burgos this June so haven't reached the Mesata yet.Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
My knee was much better by the time I got there but I still wrote of the "hell walk (from Riego de Ambros) to Molinaseca" at the time. I'm sure it is beautiful for those with strong knees, though.Noo! Don't do that, get your knee better, then go and do the whole thing, that's my advice. Aacebo to Molinaseca is one of my favourite bits- so beautiful! Best wishes..
Thanks everyone for responding. You’ve made me rethink the Meseta. This will be my first Camino and I suppose I mistakenly thought that the Meseta was one of the hardest sections physically. But sounds like it might be a good section for me. I’m thinking of taking the bourricot shuttle from SJPP halfway to Roncesvalles, which would leave me 12k. I think with my knee brace and poles this might be manageable. Then short sections to Pamplona.
its the downhill part of hilly terrain that wracks havoc with your knees. These sections have been mentioned by several members to you. Check them out and whenever possible try to avoid them.Thanks everyone for responding. You’ve made me rethink the Meseta. This will be my first Camino and I suppose I mistakenly thought that the Meseta was one of the hardest sections physically. But sounds like it might be a good section for me.
I’m thinking of taking the bourricot shuttle from SJPP halfway to Roncesvalles, which would leave me 12k. I think with my knee brace and poles this might be manageable. Then short sections to Pamplona.
Skip it. It’s awful. Boring and depressingHi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
I regret that autocorrect strikes again. That should have read *Astorga and *albergue.
Last year, there was a thread here from a peregrina who had lost her things through theft who ended up there, and they restored her pilgrimage by love and art. It sounds like a special place.Flores Del Camino bed and breakfast
Welcome to the auto-correct misspelling club, @Marianjhart. Fortunately there is an edit function, which I use all the time when I post and then notice a mistake. You'll see a button on the bottom left of your post called 'edit,' and then all you have to do is to make the changes you need to make and press save.
Last year, there was a thread here from a peregrina who had lost her things through theft who ended up there, and they restored her pilgrimage by love and art. It sounds like a special place.
So sorry to hear about your injury Mary. Listening to your body is definitely the best thing to do. Can’t give you advice about places to stay as I haven’t walked myself yet. Sending out positive thoughts and energy to you. The meseta will be waiting for you another time. Buen Camino!Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
That first day walking will be the hardest!!Hi and thanks Mike! I’m actually still at home and under specialist orthopaedic care, planning on leaving next week. I’m really reluctant to let go of that first week as I’m doing it with my son - just for one week. I’ve waited so long to do it. My doctor supports my decision but advises me to be guided by pain. Which I will do. But I have to try. Then I’ll rest it for a while. Thank you for your thoughts
HI Mary,Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
Hi Mary, here are a few photos taken this month on La Meseta:Hi everyone, I will set out on my Camino journey next week, but a knee injury has forced me to reconsider my plans. I have shortened my daily distances from St Jean to Burgos and then I have a few days in Santo Domingo de Silos. I had originally planned to walk the Meseta , but I am now considering leaving that section for another time (while I would love to walk it, the Camino is already teaching me to listen to my body).
I am seeking advice about a place to stay for about 10-14 days somewhere between Burgos and Leon or Astorga. I could happily use this time to work on a writing project. I would also be happy to volunteer somewhere for a couple of weeks. (Incidentally, the knee injury is not insignificant - three meniscal tears, a separated lateral ligament and lateral and posterior fluid collections).
I would really value any advice you have. Thanks
To be even more uplifting: All PRIVATE albergues/hostals don't care at all how you got there. Book in advance a day ahead. You have gotten alot of good advice here.Last Camino group trip, I had a lovely lady who couldn't walk 30 feet! (Yes, I TOLD everyone they must be able to walk 20k, but I guess she didn't think that was important!)
Anyway... she literally bussed and taxid the entire route and would meet us at the end of the day at our lodging. This isn't a bad option for you, maybe - you'd get to see the missed sections - maybe walk a portion of them - and most albergues these days will allow you to stay if you've taken a bus or taxi.
Just a thought.
So your orthopaedist hasn’t discharged you as of yet?Hi and thanks Mike! I’m actually still at home and under specialist orthopaedic care, planning on leaving next week. I’m really reluctant to let go of that first week as I’m doing it with my son - just for one week. I’ve waited so long to do it. My doctor supports my decision but advises me to be guided by pain. Which I will do. But I have to try. Then I’ll rest it for a while. Thank you for your thoughts
That’s what I’ve decided MarigoldNoo! Don't do that, get your knee better, then go and do the whole thing, that's my advice. Placebo to Molinaseca is one of my favourite bits- so beautiful! Best wishes..
You are so courageous Mary making this hard but necessary decision! When I was a runner (jogger), I had to postpone my first marathon (three stress fractures in my femur). Once the disappointment subsided I was glad I made that decision. Your Camino is waiting for you! Positive thoughts and wishes for a complete recovery!Hi Everyone, firstly THANK YOU so much for the advice, suggestions, care and support. Your comments have been so helpful and will continue to be. I’ve decided to postpone my Camino. It has already taught me about facing my disappointments and expectations! My knee is still acute and needs to repair and heal and I need to build up the supporting and stabilising muscles. This is not going to be quick, so I have to accept that my body is not ready, even though my heart is. I know I can bus and taxi stages, but I’d prefer to wait and walk what I can. I really appreciate all your advice! Thanks so much and Buen Camino to all. I’ll see you on the path in a year or two
<<sigh of relief>> Seven years ago I'd planned to cycle the Camino, once I'd recovered from my second knee replacement. But I never regained the range of motion in that knee, so last autumn, I began to walk instead. It was the exactly the mode and the time that I was meant to go. Do the physio, go to the gym and get that knee strong, it'll make the experience all the more amazing when you do get there.❤You are so courageous Mary making this hard but necessary decision! When I was a runner (jogger), I had to postpone my first marathon (three stress fractures in my femur). Once the disappointment subsided I was glad I made that decision. Your Camino is waiting for you! Positive thoughts and wishes for a complete recovery!
I’m in my 60’s and have this sense of urgency that I’ll have to try and let go of it.
Thank you so much for the update Mary! You saw the glass was half full and went with it! So special sharing this time with your son. Continue enjoying your trip - I know you will return to the Camino!Hi Everyone, I am writing this from Pamplona to give you an update - because you have all been so kind and helpful to share your thoughts and advice.
My son walked SJPP to Roncesvalles and I caught the bus. We had a great night in Roncesvalles - attended the pilgrim's mass, blessing and experienced a wonderful choral concert after the mass. Met some lovely people - pilgrims and locals. The next day, my son walked from Roncesvalles to Larrosoaña and then taxied to meet me in Pamplona (I caught the bus again).
In a couple of days my son has to leave Spain to return to work. I am heading to Granada and then I'll stay a few weeks in the Los Alpujarra where I will work on strengthening my knee and doing whatever mountain walking my body is happy with.
Then I will return to Pamplona and walk on from there - I will go slowly and carefully and will take the bus or taxi if I need to. I will walk as far as I can within the time I have available. Then next time, I will pick up from wherever I have to finish.
I feel content with this plan. I had some thought to do just the last 100k, but my heart is telling me to just continue my slow Camino journey across Spain.
Buen Camino!!
Very happy for you! IMHO, I think you have the perfect setup for yourself. AND: You are there!!! In Spain! On the Camino! You are living it while us here are only reading it...Hi Everyone, I am writing this from Pamplona to give you an update - because you have all been so kind and helpful to share your thoughts and advice.
My son walked SJPP to Roncesvalles and I caught the bus. We had a great night in Roncesvalles - attended the pilgrim's mass, blessing and experienced a wonderful choral concert after the mass. Met some lovely people - pilgrims and locals. The next day, my son walked from Roncesvalles to Larrosoaña and then taxied to meet me in Pamplona (I caught the bus again).
In a couple of days my son has to leave Spain to return to work. I am heading to Granada and then I'll stay a few weeks in the Los Alpujarra where I will work on strengthening my knee and doing whatever mountain walking my body is happy with.
Then I will return to Pamplona and walk on from there - I will go slowly and carefully and will take the bus or taxi if I need to. I will walk as far as I can within the time I have available. Then next time, I will pick up from wherever I have to finish.
I feel content with this plan. I had some thought to do just the last 100k, but my heart is telling me to just continue my slow Camino journey across Spain.
Buen Camino!!
Super plan, Mary. Thanks for keeping us in the loop.I feel content with this plan. I had some thought to do just the last 100k, but my heart is telling me to just continue my slow Camino journey across Spain.
Very happy for you! IMHO, I think you have the perfect setup for yourself. AND: You are there!!! In Spain! On the Camino! You are living it while us here are only reading it...
After next Easter, I will be back for my n'th Camino, from Pamplona and all the Way, at age 66.
You need to take it easy, I have ripped my meniscus in both knees, you need to stay off your legs... Wishing you the best...Hi and thanks for your reply. I hesitated about posting about this issue as in my reading of many other posts I see judgemental replies - and I hoped that people would consider my question in the spirit it was intended. I am not planning to be a tourist or to have a holiday -norhaveisuggested that the Meseta is boring. I am genuinely aiming to balance an injury with a pilgrimage. So don’t be ‘sad’ at what you perceive about my intentions please.
But thank you for your other suggestions and best wishes.
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