Running/Walking: A source of therapy

I enjoy running and walking. I am known to some as a Forrest Gump. This means, that sometimes; I will just go out and run and finish when my legs get tired. This means that I will run roughly 10 miles. This is normally when I feel the need to go to Newport Beach and run in my training ground. I started my marathon training in Newport Beach in 2005. Yes, I would drive 74 miles each way to be a member of the training group.

Running or walking; I get into a runner zone. If I am running; I get my second wind at the last three or so miles. It is one of the best methods of therapy and time to yourself.

I space out my runs and walks as I would for the training programs for 1/2 marathons or marathons. Sometimes; I find that it can be hard to do this in public as people can be mean because they do not understand differences. If I am running or walking at a pace my left arm and left hand tend to create the hook and my limp on my left leg is more noticeable.

I have learned to hold something with my left hand, such as dog treats or water. I also have learned to put my left arm/left hand on my hip or to follow my right hand/right arm. This process has helped me to become more aware of my left side as opposed to neglecting the side. As a child I neglected the left side and my hook and arm weakness were very noticeable while walking/running. My left leg and left foot will always not change with my limp. This is just something to not think of and since I have had the limp all my life; it is my normal.

My pace is fast without the dogs. If I have the dogs, my pace is a bit more. I go at my own pace and sometimes enjoy going for walks/runs by myself because of the ability to go at my own pace.

I do have a clip on my shoe in case of an emergency; that identfies my blood type, name, and contact information.

Advice:
I suggest getting a clip of emergency information on your shoe for walking/running. I also suggest finding a pace that you are comfortable at and informing friends or family that you walk with your pace and what is best for you during recovery. The limp will be the limp. My doctor told me that based on my limp and the running will create more of a limp. However; I still run. I have noticed the limp/gait of my left leg/foot become more noticeable as I grow-up. The hand/arm: I would make sure that you create awareness as I did for the affected side. It is hard but with time; I remember to make sure it is looking like my unaffected hand and arm.