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Running Pains. Quite Literally.

I am a pretty new runner. So new that I am still trying to figure out the idiosyncracies to running properly and making my life easier. Non-shoe apparel: both cold and hot weather clothes; safety (vests vs lights), etc. Proper running techniques, how to recognize when my body needs a rest, diet, and all that good stuff.

One thing that I have finally grown an appreciation is properly breaking in my new running shoes before going on one of my full runs (I only run four times a week, four is the minimum, six is my intermediate, and eight is my long).

Last spring I update my running shoe. I went from a New Balance to a Brooks Adrenaline 11. During the first three weeks, my knees ached, as well as my feet. And I battled with migraine headaches. I blamed the aching knees and feet on the shoes. But inexplicably couldn't figure out the cause of my headaches. Just figured I had a rash of bad luck.

Then mid-February, I bought a new pair of shoes, the Adrenaline 12. I ran a four mile stretch without any sort of pre-wear on the shoes. Two days later, midway through the day, wouldn't you know it, I had a crazy bad migraine again.

My wife mentioned the prossibility of my shoe being the problem. I believe her to be correct. I've heard of horror stories of people wearing shoes that do not feel comfortable causing back pain and other physical problems. I've also heard of people needing chiropractic care in order to alleviate headaches as well. So, in my personal opinion, based on experience, this all sounds too plausible.

Has anyone else run (ha, no pun intended) into this problem? Any tips on effectively breaking in a shoe to avoid headaches (in the very literal sense)? I've taken to taking walks in my new shoes while still running in the old. I'm planning on taking a three week transition. I don't think it will actually take that long, but right now I am incredibly gun shy. I do not want/need another migraine to sideline me any more time.

Any suggestion would be greatly appreciated. Perhaps we can help each other figure out ways to make our running experiences a little less painful!!

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