ART=P.A.I.N.

So, in my world ART stands for ACTIVE RELEASE TECHNIQUES.
What is it exactly? Well, I googled it and here is the definition:

ART is a patented, state of the art soft tissue system/movement based massage technique that treats problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia and nerves. Headaches, back pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, shin splints, shoulder pain, sciatica, plantar fasciitis, knee problems, and tennis elbow are just a few of the many conditions that can be resolved quickly and permanently with ART. These conditions all have one important thing in common: they are often a result of overused muscles.




The key words for me in that description are OVERUSED MUSCLES.
I have those. Plenty.

I have been having heel pain and toe pain.
Sure it is probally due to the miles that I am running, but I need some answers besides "stop running".
ART is going to be my answer.
But the thing with ART massage is that it hurts. Today during my session, I just grit my teeth.
I can take it. Its worth it. This is good for me. At least that is what I kept telling myself.

After the therapy, my Doc taped my foot and toe with Kenesio tape. Well, if it works, GREAT! If it does not work, at least the tape is a pretty SPRTY hot pink color.

After my 20 miler this past Saturday, I am officially on taper mode. That means my mileage will decrease over the next 19 days until The Boston Marathon 2009.

What a great ride it has been, pain and all!