bumps in my(pre Camino) road but staying positive :)

[Dutchwalk53]

I just encountered some issues. I'm leaving June 9th for my 2nd Camino. Yesterday I walked my usual 5 miles after a 2 week training break due to limited time. My husband got into an accident and broke one leg and badly hurt his other one. So between work and taking care of him after his surgery I just didn't have the energy/time to walk. Now I finally did again yesterday and my Plantar Fasciitis flared up in a big way . I do have custom Orthotics and stretch etc .....so I may call my podiatrist fro a cortisone shot. But in spite of these set backs ......I am more thrilled then ever to start my Camino. I know I WILL have a great time. Last year I walked often with a women who ran in all sorts of issues. Blisters, bedbugs and a bad UTI, knee problems.... But.....she kept smiling and just adapted when needed (she sometimes took a taxi/bus or a break day) She was the most positive person ever. !!!! . This is my attitude for this year. To enjoy just being on the Camino however it will go

 

[DragonShadow]

Great attitude!! Thanks for sharing. I will walk my first Camino (El Norte) in September. I've been training but also have had a few bumps along the way including aggravated hips, lower back issues and a strained foot muscle. I have learned that when something flares ups, I must listen to my body, throttle back if necessary and be diligent about my stretches and strength training. Here at home, taking time to soak in a hot bath has done my body wonders, however not something one can easily do on the trail.
Buen Camino!

 

[LesBrass]

I hope you have a great, troublefree walk!

 

[Kerry C]

I finished my Camino on May 17, walking with planter faciitus. I made sure to do my stretching routines everyday, wore my insoles and approved shoes, kept my load light, and walked a shorter day. It worked fine! It even improved as I walked.

 

[Mike Trebert]

Hi Dutch,

So sorry to hear about your challenges. You sound like a strong person with a robust sense of humour, so...

Get out there and laugh in your problems' face! Then stare them down and walk all over them with your Camino boots.

I've worked for months to keep my plantar fasciitis under control (left foot only, wonky ankle structure). I finished my Camino 3 weeks ago and my feet are still sore. I'm thinking I might have developed some PF in my "good" foot. I walked around Pere Lachaise Cemetery here in Paris for hours today taking photos. Cobblestones! Flashback!

Now, you probably know all this so forgive me if I seem to tell you how to suck eggs:

I use ice every day for inflammation. Not heat. Ice pack from the freezer. Apply for 10 minutes. Very hard to organise ice while on the Camino. I used to sit in the shower or tub every afternoon (I stayed in small hotels not hostels) and run VERY hot water over my aching legs and feet. Great for muscles, but ice is better for the plantar ligament. My PF was pretty much under control by the time I started my Camino Frances, so I got away without using ice for 5+ weeks. I'm back to ice now that I'm able to manage a routine again. I suggest you try hard to use ice as often as you can while on your Camino.

I bought a small wooden roller/foot massager from The Body Shop. Recommended by my physiotherapist. Just roll your feet back and forth while sitting. Very light and small, easy to carry. It honestly doesn't seem to do much at the time but as part of a remedial multi-solution routine, who knows?

When you stretch, bend your knee on the stretched leg and get your toes higher than your heel. Hold for 30 seconds, repeat for groups of 4. Not bending your knee stretches the calf muscle, not the achilles/plantar group. You'll feel the difference. Go easy, when my leg muscles got very tight and stiff (last half of every day) I felt as though I might tear something!

I used/still use Voltaren twice a day. Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ointment. Ibuprofen is the same thing but stronger. I didn't use Ibuprofen because I wanted to be able to pay attention to what was happening instead of losing my body in a fog of drunken smoosh.

You already know all this but maybe there's tweak or two in there that might be useful. I got a set of instructions from my podiatrist when I picked up my orthotics. A couple weeks later I went to my physiotherapist and reviewed it all - I had got a few little things wrong and she suggested the roller-massager as an extra. So extra info is good info.

All the very best on your Camino and I hope Mr Husband gets well soon.

Buen Camino, - Mike

Oh, and here's a P.S.: I met a woman while walking. 75yrs old. She was walking with a pin in her recently obviously badly smashed femur. She walked as far as she could each day then took a taxi. I say being there some of the time is better than not being there.

 

[Dutchwalk53]

Hi Dutch,

So sorry to hear about your challenges. You sound like a strong person with a robust sense of humour, so...

Get out there and laugh in your problems' face! Then stare them down and walk all over them with your Camino boots.

I've worked for months to keep my plantar fasciitis under control (left foot only, wonky ankle structure). I finished my Camino 3 weeks ago and my feet are still sore. I'm thinking I might have developed some PF in my "good" foot. I walked around Pere Lachaise Cemetery here in Paris for hours today taking photos. Cobblestones! Flashback!

Now, you probably know all this so forgive me if I seem to tell you how to suck eggs:

I use ice every day for inflammation. Not heat. Ice pack from the freezer. Apply for 10 minutes. Very hard to organise ice while on the Camino. I used to sit in the shower or tub every afternoon (I stayed in small hotels not hostels) and run VERY hot water over my aching legs and feet. Great for muscles, but ice is better for the plantar ligament. My PF was pretty much under control by the time I started my Camino Frances, so I got away without using ice for 5+ weeks. I'm back to ice now that I'm able to manage a routine again. I suggest you try hard to use ice as often as you can while on your Camino.

I bought a small wooden roller/foot massager from The Body Shop. Recommended by my physiotherapist. Just roll your feet back and forth while sitting. Very light and small, easy to carry. It honestly doesn't seem to do much at the time but as part of a remedial multi-solution routine, who knows?

When you stretch, bend your knee on the stretched leg and get your toes higher than your heel. Hold for 30 seconds, repeat for groups of 4. Not bending your knee stretches the calf muscle, not the achilles/plantar group. You'll feel the difference. Go easy, when my leg muscles got very tight and stiff (last half of every day) I felt as though I might tear something!

I used/still use Voltaren twice a day. Topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory ointment. Ibuprofen is the same thing but stronger. I didn't use Ibuprofen because I wanted to be able to pay attention to what was happening instead of losing my body in a fog of drunken smoosh.

You already know all this but maybe there's tweak or two in there that might be useful. I got a set of instructions from my podiatrist when I picked up my orthotics. A couple weeks later I went to my physiotherapist and reviewed it all - I had got a few little things wrong and she suggested the roller-massager as an extra. So extra info is good info.

All the very best on your Camino and I hope Mr Husband gets well soon.

Buen Camino, - Mike

Oh, and here's a P.S.: I met a woman while walking. 75yrs old. She was walking with a pin in her recently obviously badly smashed femur. She walked as far as she could each day then took a taxi. I say being there some of the time is better than not being there.

Thanks Mike for taking the time to respond,
I will try to get that little roller at The Body Shop. I am too staying at small hotels and will certainly try to get some ice every night. Tomorrow I'm going for another 5 miles and see how all feels then. I had PT issues for months but nothing too bad. Now it is bad only on 1 foot. I still have 2 1/2 weeks so I will just go to my podiatrist coming week and see what he suggests. I do NOT want new inserts there my current ones worked great during my last years Camino. I also know that during walking it kind of fades. So somehow I can and will deal with it

 

[Dutchwalk53]

I finished my Camino on May 17, walking with planter faciitus. I made sure to do my stretching routines everyday, wore my insoles and approved shoes, kept my load light, and walked a shorter day. It worked fine! It even improved as I walked.

I hope it will go that way for me too Thank you!

 

[VNwalking]

I just encountered some issues.

You're a master of understatement, Dutchwalk.
A few. But you've got a fantastic attitude!
So I hope everything smooths out for you, that your husband heals well, and that you have a pain-free and very Buen Camino!

 

[Dutchwalk53]

You're a master of understatement, Dutchwalk.
A few. But you've got a fantastic attitude!
So I hope everything smooths out for you, that your husband heals well, and that you have a pain-free and very Buen Camino!

Thank you. I still have 2 1/2 weeks so a lot things can change (for the better ) . And for the attitude.....I always try to focus on the positive instead of the negative

 

[susanawee]

I also have run into a few bumps along my way this year....I am off to walk The West Highland Way, starting on the 1st August, but, a few weeks ago, whilst walking around the bridges here in Perth, West.Aust. my right foot, which has been painful since my teenage years, and which had caused me more than a bit of grief whilst on the Camino Frances in 2013 and 2014, really decided that it was NOT going to co-operate with me any longer. So, off I went to a Podiatric Specialist who had a look at my xrays, shook his head and said, 'hmmmm, this is not a happy foot at all and we have to address the issue if you want to keep walking"......so, to cut a long story short, my foot has been operated on and is now in a short Ski type boot and is slowly recovering from surgery to try to give me some relief and some new hope. I WILL be walking the WHW in August and I know that my foot, along with my left foot, will support me along the way....Camino Smiles and Hugs to all.

 

[DurhamParish]

Buen Camino Dutchwalker.

 

[Wokabaut_Meri]

I also have run into a few bumps along my way this year....I am off to walk The West Highland Way, starting on the 1st August, but, a few weeks ago, whilst walking around the bridges here in Perth, West.Aust. my right foot, which has been painful since my teenage years, and which had caused me more than a bit of grief whilst on the Camino Frances in 2013 and 2014, really decided that it was NOT going to co-operate with me any longer. So, off I went to a Podiatric Specialist who had a look at my xrays, shook his head and said, 'hmmmm, this is not a happy foot at all and we have to address the issue if you want to keep walking"......so, to cut a long story short, my foot has been operated on and is now in a short Ski type boot and is slowly recovering from surgery to try to give me some relief and some new hope. I WILL be walking the WHW in August and I know that my foot, along with my left foot, will support me along the way....Camino Smiles and Hugs to all.

Another pilgrim walking a Healing Camino... stay positive and patient... you'll be walking again soon, I'm sure. One thing that I learnt from mine was to take things slowly and really listen to my specialists. The journey is a bit chaotic but you will reach its end.

Go Well and keep us all posted on your progress.

 

[Dutchwalk53]

Update. I saw a podiatrist today. After an x ray and ultrasound I decided to get a cortisone shot. There was a lot of inflammation and I have tried stretching, custom orthotics, icing etc. Hope it will do its job

 

[SabsP]

Good to read everyone's story here. Wishing all of you speedy recovery.
Tendinitis here too on right foot. Specialist and physio. Slow healing process.
Also allergic to Diclofenac so no meds for me.
But we will all get there...one way or another...

 

[xcountryrider]

I just encountered some issues. I'm leaving June 9th for my 2nd Camino. Yesterday I walked my usual 5 miles after a 2 week training break due to limited time. My husband got into an accident and broke one leg and badly hurt his other one. So between work and taking care of him after his surgery I just didn't have the energy/time to walk. Now I finally did again yesterday and my Plantar Fasciitis flared up in a big way . I do have custom Orthotics and stretch etc .....so I may call my podiatrist fro a cortisone shot. But in spite of these set backs ......I am more thrilled then ever to start my Camino. I know I WILL have a great time. Last year I walked often with a women who ran in all sorts of issues. Blisters, bedbugs and a bad UTI, knee problems.... But.....she kept smiling and just adapted when needed (she sometimes took a taxi/bus or a break day) She was the most positive person ever. !!!! . This is my attitude for this year. To enjoy just being on the Camino however it will go

Hey! We will be leaving on 9 June for our first camino. We begin walking on the 12th and we hope to see you doing super!

 

[susanawee]

Update. I saw a podiatrist today. After an x ray and ultrasound I decided to get a cortisone shot. There was a lot of inflammation and I have tried stretching, custom orthotics, icing etc. Hope it will do its job

I hope and pray that the injection you received will help - they are usually very good and very helpful. I am wishing you all the best....

 

[susanawee]

Another pilgrim walking a Healing Camino... stay positive and patient... you'll be walking again soon, I'm sure. One thing that I learnt from mine was to take things slowly and really listen to my specialists. The journey is a bit chaotic but you will reach its end.

Go Well and keep us all posted on your progress.

Thankyou so much Wokabaut_Meri. I will keep you all posted. Here is a small update.....I've just woken to pain such as I've not had before.....Nerve pain right across the bottom of my foot and in my toes....everything is screaming just now......ouch, ouch. This foot is most certainly testing me at the moment.

 

[Dutchwalk53]

Hey! We will be leaving on 9 June for our first camino. We begin walking on the 12th and we hope to see you doing super!

Same here. Leaving the 9th, arrive the 10th in Madrid. and transfer to SJPP the 11th . I will start walking the 12th too. Say "hi" if you see me. Maroon Osprey backpack with a tiny Dutch and American flag . You will LOVE it. Buen Camino !

 

[Dutchwalk53]

I hope and pray that the injection you received will hep - they are usually very good and very helpful. I am wishing you all the best....

Thanks. I also got splint to wear at night to keep the Plantar F . in a certain position. No matter what.....walking I will . I hope you will get your issues resolved !!!!!

 

[ktchnofdngr]

While I don't have plantar fascitis, I do have issues with my peroneal tendons in both of my feet, and one thing I would seriously recommend is sending your pack on, as it will relieve the amount of pounding your feet will get. I'm taking an massage ball (this one is VERY light...maybe 3 oz, and it does well for massaging trigger areas. The bigger ball isn't much heavier, and better for places that give you lots of pain to roll out). On my last Camino, I found that most bars were willing to let me have a little bit of ice if I asked. I plan to ask, and even pay for it if it means I can finish my Camino this year.

Blessings,

Ruth

 

[Dutchwalk53]

Thank you Ruth. Trust me I WILL send my pack if needed. I like carrying a backpack but know that to be able to finish this years route with Plantar, I may have to make some adjustments. So if needed I will carry about 12 lbs in my pack and have a small day pack with the remainder (6 lbs) of my stuff that I can forward very day if needed. And if that isn't enough, I will forward my backpack and carry only my day pack.

 

[Jenn]

I'm so grateful to read this post and all the encouragement thereafter. I am arriving in Astorga mid June to walk my first Camino alone and I suffer from foot and lower back issues relating to rheumatoid arthritis, which are usually well managed but have flared up during my training walks. I have good orthotics, plenty of anti inflams, I'm doing plenty of stretches and probably will just carry a very small daypack ... I'm both chicken and determined. Thank you for showing me it's doable and not necessarily a 'failure' if I need to have my pack transported, to have a rest day or taxi through a section.

 

[Dutchwalk53]

I'm so grateful to read this post and all the encouragement thereafter. I am arriving in Astorga mid June to walk my first Camino alone and I suffer from foot and lower back issues relating to rheumatoid arthritis, which are usually well managed but have flared up during my training walks. I have good orthotics, plenty of anti inflams, I'm doing plenty of stretches and probably will just carry a very small daypack ... I'm both chicken and determined. Thank you for showing me it's doable and not necessarily a 'failure' if I need to have my pack transported, to have a rest day or taxi through a section.

Good for you.
Short story :Last year when my son and I walked our first Camino , we had to deal with our first "taxi dilemma" We were walking from Los Arcos to Logrono (28 km) where we really wanted to enjoy and do a "Tapas crawl" Arriving in Viana (which is at about km 19) we hit a wall. It was a very hot day and our "walking day " 4 and started late that morning. We were just wiped out once we reached Viana. So there we sat enjoying a refreshment at 3:30 pm.....what to do? Forward by Taxi 9 km and have a few hours to rest in Logrono and then do the Tapas crawl that we wanted to do , or push on and arrive exhausted in Logrono. We even called my other son in the USA to discuss it. As if we needed his approval ??? Ha ha . Anyway, we got over our guild feel and did take the taxi and had an amazing evening in Logrono. The day after we talked about it and in the end didn't feel a "lesser" Pilgrim . So do what you feel you want and need to do to make this trip the best for YOU Buen Camino !

 

[Jenn]

great story .... I'm getting very nervous now with just ten days before I fly out from Australia and in a lot of ways I feel ill prepared, I've never even been to Europe before, or travelled alone before or even hiked more than 20km in a day. So I will just do whatever I can to make it a successful adventure.

 

[Wokabaut_Meri]

great story .... I'm getting very nervous now with just ten days before I fly out from Australia and in a lot of ways I feel ill prepared, I've never even been to Europe before, or travelled alone before or even hiked more than 20km in a day. So I will just do whatever I can to make it a successful adventure.

Don't forget to breathe Jenn! Nervousness is just a sign that you are on the verge of a wonderful adventure. You'll be fine once you're on your Way.

You said that you've never been to Europe before. Don't know what other long haul travelling you've done but Australia to Europe is a long journey so do all the useful things like wearing comfortable clothing, staying hydrated, eating lightly and well, exercising your legs regularly (perhaps even flying in compression socks/stockings) and walking the transit terminal if there is time. Also don't forget to get some decent rest after your arrival. Jet lag effects people in different ways and some lucky ones not at all.

Oh, and don't forget to look for the sun in the south in the northern hemisphere. You'll be fascinated by how your shadow appears to be in the 'wrong' place for a particular time of day.

 

[Jenn]

Ah

Don't forget to breathe Jenn! Nervousness is just a sign that you are on the verge of a wonderful adventure. You'll be fine once you're on your Way.

You said that you've never been to Europe before. Don't know what other long haul travelling you've done but Australia to Europe is a long journey so do all the useful things like wearing comfortable clothing, staying hydrated, eating lightly and well, exercising your legs regularly (perhaps even flying in compression socks/stockings) and walking the transit terminal if there is time. Also don't forget to get some decent rest after your arrival. Jet lag effects people in different ways and some lucky ones not at all.

Oh, and don't forget to look for the sun in the south in the northern hemisphere. You'll be fascinated by how your shadow appears to be in the 'wrong' place for a particular time of day.

Ahhh yes breathe I shan't forget that part this site has been both advantageous and stressful as there's so much advice. (I'm not complaining,
I've needed it!) I have travelled to Africa/ Egypt/Indonesia before so I can imagine the flight will be ghastly but at least this time I won't have young kids in tow and the 23 hour flight is broken up into 3 parts with an hour stop over (x2) in between. I arrive late in Madrid and have booked a hotel as I know I'll be exhausted. Then have booked bus to Astorga the next day where I'll have another restful night at a hotel which I've also pre booked, before I start walking. From there I'm trusting the Camino spirit to set me free I have 3 weeks so no rush, looking forward to making a start and rolling with whatever comes my way. I make friends easily so I'm sure someone will help me out and point me in the right direction.

Have read on here about how busy the accom is during June/July so I'm guessing I should book ahead a few days at a time? Ideally id love to carry a pack and just walk each day until I've had enough (or my body screams at me) but docs not advising I carry the pack so next best thing will be fine.

You clearly had a great time for you to be returning so soon, even with foot problems.

I'm looking forward to the sun. And of all goes well I plan to recuperate in Finisterre and soak some in before I return to winter.

Thanks for sharing your wisdom.
Jenn

 

[Wokabaut_Meri]

Ah


Ahhh yes breathe I shan't forget that part this site has been both advantageous and stressful as there's so much advice. (I'm not complaining,
I've needed it!) I have travelled to Africa/ Egypt/Indonesia before so I can imagine the flight will be ghastly but at least this time I won't have young kids in tow and the 23 hour flight is broken up into 3 parts with an hour stop over (x2) in between. I arrive late in Madrid and have booked a hotel as I know I'll be exhausted. Then have booked bus to Astorga the next day where I'll have another restful night at a hotel which I've also pre booked, before I start walking. From there I'm trusting the Camino spirit to set me free I have 3 weeks so no rush, looking forward to making a start and rolling with whatever comes my way. I make friends easily so I'm sure someone will help me out and point me in the right direction.

Have read on here about how busy the accom is during June/July so I'm guessing I should book ahead a few days at a time? Ideally id love to carry a pack and just walk each day until I've had enough (or my body screams at me) but docs not advising I carry the pack so next best thing will be fine.

You clearly had a great time for you to be returning so soon, even with foot problems.

I'm looking forward to the sun. And of all goes well I plan to recuperate in Finisterre and soak some in before I return to winter.

Thanks for sharing your wisdom.
Jenn

I actually enjoy the long haul flights and really relax into a trip as soon as I board. Nothing more that I can do except relax As you've flown to Africa, you're well versed in long distance flying and no young kids means that you can focus on yourself. Really like how you've paced your arrival. Very sensible and recuperative. There's a chocolate shop in Astorga and a chocolate museum for the truly addicted. It's a beautiful location in which to start your Camino.

With ongoing accommodation I would book a few days ahead for weekends and public holidays. Don't know about the rest but you will meet up with pilgrims in Astorga who can make up-to-date recommendations.

Listen to your doctors regarding carrying your main pack. I assume that you will have a small day pack with you and you can always add just a little bit more weight (consumables preferably) to that on short stretches to see how you fare. You are no lesser a pilgrim if you journey within your physical capabilities.

We had an amazing Camino and that's saying a lot as we have trekked in some extraordinary places. There is just something intangible about the Way that affects many of us.

Wishing you a safe journey and a Buen Camino!

 

[susanawee]

I'm so grateful to read this post and all the encouragement thereafter. I am arriving in Astorga mid June to walk my first Camino alone and I suffer from foot and lower back issues relating to rheumatoid arthritis, which are usually well managed but have flared up during my training walks. I have good orthotics, plenty of anti inflams, I'm doing plenty of stretches and probably will just carry a very small daypack ... I'm both chicken and determined. Thank you for showing me it's doable and not necessarily a 'failure' if I need to have my pack transported, to have a rest day or taxi through a section.

Good on you Jenn. We will all be walking with you in spirit and, because your mind set is so focused, you WILL do what you set out to do. I too am struggling a lot at the moment since foot surgery in April and am still not able to do any walking training which means, that when the ski boot type brace comes off, I will only have Five weeks to get myself ready to walk in Scotland on 1st August. Still, I am determined that I will do it and, am not in any way concerned now at the thought of maybe, having to catch a taxi or a bus during each day in order to get to the designated point for each day......What will be, will be....Buen Camino.

 

[Nann]

Great attitude!! Thanks for sharing. I will walk my first Camino (El Norte) in September. I've been training but also have had a few bumps along the way including aggravated hips, lower back issues and a strained foot muscle. I have learned that when something flares ups, I must listen to my body, throttle back if necessary and be diligent about my stretches and strength training. Here at home, taking time to soak in a hot bath has done my body wonders, however not something one can easily do on the trail.
Buen Camino!

I am so glad to read this. I used to be runner, now a walker but took time off and now training is making me hurt all over. I know my body will adjust, I am so excited and keep that in my head as I hurt and continue to walk on... Good luck to you...Buen Camino for us all!

 

[DragonShadow]

I am so glad to read this. I used to be runner, now a walker but took time off and now training is making me hurt all over. I know my body will adjust, I am so excited and keep that in my head as I hurt and continue to walk on... Good luck to you...Buen Camino for us all!

Nann, I used to be a runner as well but as I got older my knees decided otherwise. While I'll always miss running, I have found renewed inspiration in training for the Camino. As I add mileage and weight I can tell my body is adjusting and getting stronger. I will walk the Norte starting in mid-September. Bought my plane tickets a week ago and sent away for my credentials on Friday. I'm getting very excited!

 

[Nann]

Nann, I used to be a runner as well but as I got older my knees decided otherwise. While I'll always miss running, I have found renewed inspiration in training for the Camino. As I add mileage and weight I can tell my body is adjusting and getting stronger. I will walk the Norte starting in mid-September. Bought my plane tickets a week ago and sent away for my credentials on Friday. I'm getting very excited![/QUOTE

I am finding myself getting stronger, but it is slow. I am getting so excited though!