Hi everyone!
Thank you so much for reading this. I have never been more desperate to find the right pair of shoes. Your advise would be so very appreciated and if this thread helps me ID a pair of shoes that can help me run pain free, I will be GRATEFUL beyond words I can think of right now.
In a nutshell:
I am looking for a mild/moderate support show that has a big toe box and flat (non-curved) sole that allow my toes to spread out and not squish. Any recommendations?
More info:
I havent ran since December 2015 since I developed toe pain (right foot) and achilles tenditinits (both feet).
After years of unsuccessful physical therapy, we have determined that the:
Achilles tendinitis:
Is due to weakness in the hips and a slow transition from heel striking to mid/forefoot striking. The calves and Achilles where bearing the majority of the work during the run.
Toe pain:
Was most likely caused by wearing a (Feetures) ankle sleeve which I wear to help an old Post Tib injury and the sleeve extended deep down the foot, essentially squeezing the toes. This, in combination with the Saucony having a small toe box with curved sole caused my toes to ' squish' together. I have since cut the foot portion off the ankle sleeve and am searching for a big toe box, flat sole support shoe.
I've always worn Sacouny: Guides when heel striking and Rides when I transitioned to a more mid/forefoot strike. I will be going back to a heel strike but will be sure to keep the cadence around 180, not over stride, and be light on my feet making sure my foot lands semi-under me.
I now have a good physical therapist and am strengthening my hips and I feel good! I am starting to run 1 mile but the current show that I am trying, Brooks Transcend 4 are still giving me a bit of toe pain. This shoe has the right size big toe box and good support so its close but not the winner.
About me:
5' 10'', 145 lb Male
Mild/moderate overpronator
Ideally would run 5 miles 3x a week.
Extremely grateful for any advise.
My best,
Andrew