Overcoming Adversity: A Journey From Injury to Recovery

I was always a highly active individual, embracing the thrill of running. Before becoming a mom, I enjoyed the excitement of hitting the road and exploring new paths. As I prepared for motherhood, I was at my peak fitness level, having completed a marathon and three half marathons in one year.

Upon discovering my pregnancy, I adjusted my workout regimen to prioritize my baby’s health. Although I continued running, I reduced the distance. After my son’s birth, my body presented unexpected challenges. In June 2025, I faced prolonged labor and ultimately opted for a cesarean section due to stalled progress. This was an emotional decision, but I felt supported by my medical team throughout the journey.

Post-surgery, I awaited sensation in my lower limbs. While feeling returned gradually, I noticed persistent numbness in my left side from the knee down, along with an inability to control my left foot. The neurologist indicated a possible peroneal nerve trauma due to labor duration, suggesting recovery would require time and patience.

The road to recovery involved intense physical and emotional challenges. Balancing new motherhood with post-surgical recovery left me uncertain about regaining full leg function. Transitioning from hospital discharge in a wheelchair to using a cane at home marked a tough adjustment period. My husband and parents were instrumental in supporting me during this time.

I commenced physical therapy with twice-weekly sessions aimed at restoring core stability and relaxing nerve strain. Complementary treatments included chiropractic sessions with limited results and acupuncture, which yielded tangible improvements after two sessions.

Gradually, I regained weight-bearing capacity on my left leg, though it didn’t feel completely normal. My determination to run again fueled my commitment to therapy and self-care. Medical advice to give it time was embraced, fostering healing.

Fourteen weeks postpartum, I experienced my first run as a mom, carefully managing the training process to prevent re-injury. Completing a 16-week regimen culminated in a successful half marathon one year post-C-section. The journey from numbness to marathon finish underscored perseverance.

“It wasn’t about pace or proving anything; each step signaled progress.”

While my story is distinct and nerve damage isn’t a typical C-section outcome, I cherish the reminder of my resilience marked by residual numbness in my big toe. A year ago, uncertainty clouded my future. Today, running over 13 miles reignites my sense of strength.

Jill Justine, 34, lives in San Diego, California, with her husband and 1-year-old son. Her social media (@jill_justine_ on Instagram) chronicles her recovery and return to running, inspiring mothers through the power of patience and self-belief.