Mo, I've had lots of injuries over the years and spent a fair amount of money on Physio, so I can empathise with how you are feeling. Both Mrs Tenkay and I used to run quite long distances, and if you do that your body tends to become quite efficient at running long distances. This tends to lead to a relatively low leg lift, relaxed running style which does help to stave off a lot of injuries apart from the overuse ones.
I'm very sceptical about all the claims made over the years by the various running shoe manufacturers, believing that you don't need to spend a fortune on running shoes, just find what suits you and stick with it. A friend of ours who has been a keen runner since the 70's recently had both knees replaced with about six months between each operation. He was meticulous in following the rehab instructions hence the comparatively short time between operations. This friend is notoriously careful with his money and used to run in a beat up pair of old trainers. Our jaws dropped when following the last op he turned up at parkrun in a brand new pair of trainers, and they were the top of the range model. He'd done lots of research and chosen the most cushioned shoe available in order to help protect his new knees.
The shoes he went for were a brand called Hoka, to some they look a bit like clown shoes but they are extremely well cushioned and he's been back running without ill effect for a while now. This is what inspired Mrs Tenkay and gave her the confidence to start running again. She's doing really well, taking it steady and suffering no ill effects. They're not for everyone but I've since bought a pair and am very impressed. The unexpected bonus is that if I wear them on the turbo the soles grip the platform pedals so well that it's a bit like being clipped in!
Just thought I'd relay our experience as I know what it's like to miss running.
Hi
