I was getting stronger, running further then bam... Injured!

My running was starting to go well. I was getting stronger, running further and even getting my times down a little. It was nice to see a few miles in the 10 minute range instead of 11 or even 12. I even had a few 9 minute miles sneak in every now and then which although isn't fast it's better than I anticipated since I don't run consistent throughout the year like I did when I was younger. I will never be fast like I was in high school when I was a skinny less than 100 pound runt. But I'm okay with that! I run now more for my mental health than anything, and also so I can eat ice cream without feeling guilty! 

A few weeks ago during my long run I felt a twinge of pain in my left calve. It was like a cramp but it wouldn't go away. I managed to finish my 12 miles and with a little stretching, ice and ibuprofen as well as my normal rest day on Monday it got to feeling better without missing any runs. Then this week while running 5 miles it seized up on me again. Again I was able to finish my run but in considerable pain this time. When I got home I could barely walk up the stairs to my apartment. It was even worse after I showered and headed to work. Going back down the stairs was pure hell. I got to work and propped my leg up and iced it on and off throughout the day. The pain didn't subside and walking was a chore. I knew this time I was going to have to rest and miss some runs. The timing stinks as I was going back up in mileage this week and so far have missed my Saturday semi long run day (7 miles) and my Sunday long run which was to be 14 miles today. So bummed!

So what instead of running am I doing today? Currently using a heating pad to warm up the calve muscle then will foam roll it. That will be excruciating I'm sure! Then ice... And repeat! Hope this works or I may be depressed beyond depressed soon. Running is my anti-depressant.

I am hoping I can run tomorrow at least a few easy miles. I know I can't make up the missed miles but as long as I don't miss too many days hopefully no one will have to heed the following warning: 

Happy training!