The Picture is Complete

Today I had a follow-up visit with Dr. Jeff Saul at S.O.A.R in Redwood City. The purpose was simply to let the doc know how the last round of epidural injections worked. I also wanted to ask the doctor about returning to running.

Nothing particularly exciting happened at the appointment, but I left feeling like a weight had lifted off my shoulders. At this point we know that I have extremely degenerated disc and there is no way to 'fix it.' The doctor suggested that I avoid running for 12 weeks to enable my body to get to a point of minimal inflammation. (This break was intended to help me be able to return to a decent level of normal function as opposed to an outcome related to training or racing). I did ask the doc if I would do damage by running again. His answer was no, BUT, he said I would know very quickly if I would be able to run, train or race. It is pretty simple, the degeneration may continue to significantly limit my ability to train or perform and a high level. I have to accept what I am, what I have and move on.

Why would I feel relieved and even happy after leaving the doctor's office? (especially considering the 'non-outcome' of the appointment). Well, after five years of battling the back, I can see exactly what I am working with. My option is to try. I can try training and see what happens. I do have pain every day (regardless of training), so I'm not certain where an attempt to return to running and a full regimen of triathlon training will lead. No point in worrying or belly aching over it though. I'm going to wait another week or two and try some running.

The body is an amazing thing. I'm not counting myself out just yet. If my competition is smart, they won't either. :-)