well, a few weeks ago (early April) went for my follow up appointment with a south african National Health Service podiatrist.
She asked me how the orthotic insoles had been, I told her I hadn't used them and it had gone away all by itself. I didn't tell her about the Correct Toes, and how I had cut up the insoles they gave me to increase toe spread!!!
She said "fine, its up to you to do what you want, I will sign you off, all the best for the future. You could see a movement specialist if you want further help." Fairly closed mind. Normally used to dealing with old people with diabetes I think.
BUT I have been running a few times since, mostly totally barefoot. A couple of 5k park runs, a few (probably 7) runs of 4-5km (2.5 to 3 miles max) and all is going well. Keeping the heartrate down (Maffetone method) so I am doing 12.5 minute miles (2 years ago I was running 1h42m half marathons), but I have changed my running philosophy now.
Here is a few photos from yesterday's park run. in the rain!!!
2 miles in xero shoes (as I had never done the course before) and last mile barefoot.