Update

I tried posting an update a day or two ago but it didn't work, so I said the hell with it. Let's try again today.

My right leg is responding nicely to strength training, stretching and occasional ice. I had a very difficult first and second week back from Austin. I probably should not have run a step, but I couldn't help myself (even though I didn't really feel like running). This week--i.e., the third week back--is going well. I'm on track to run about 40 miles, which is a very good sign. I might even be ready to race on the 19th (Shamrock race in Bristol?). I'm thinking the 2 miler, but we'll see.

I did 5 minutes of barefoot running on the treadmill two nights ago. Other than the achiness in the balls of my feet, it felt great--better than the Minimus Road. The Minimus Road have a 4mm heel-to-toe drop, and it was evident having gone from running in them to running barefoot on the treadmill. I learned that Nike Free also has a 4mm drop; FiveFingers: 0mm; Green Silence: 9mm. Based strictly on drop, the FiveFingers are most like running barefoot. However, I've read that the Minimus Trail, despite the 4mm drop, are superior to the FiveFingers. Barefoot gurus seem to love them. The Minimus Trail uses Vibram rubber, and it's much more flexible and responsive than the foam used in the Minimus Road. They're slightly narrower, too.

Anyway, I'd love to get away from the Nike LunarTrainer completely. I think that if I start to incorporate some barefoot running into my schedule, I'll be able to run in even the minimalist of shoes full-time. In terms of comfort, running in less shoe wins. It always has for me, but, unfortunately, my feet are not nearly strong enough to go full-time in them. Perhaps if I was doing only 15-20 miles per week but not doing 60+. So long as I take the transition slowly, I think'll I'll be fine. Since last Saturday, I've put about 25 miles on the Minimus, and my feet feel absolutely fine. No posterior tib or PF pain.