I like the suggestion to walk. Plus I can do that with my 9 year old--he has 0 interest in running (a shame, since the kid has the perfect slim, leggy runner's build and boundless energy). I have also read that pushing things too soon can lead to increased scarring and chronic ankle issues for the remainder of a person's life--no thanks!

I should ask you about the barefoot running thing, too. I think part of my problem was catching roots under the heels of my trail shoes. I wear Mizuno Wave Ascends, which are a relatively lightweight/minimal trail shoe, but are still fairly bulky and I always feel like the heels are hard and stiff. I really believe that I wouldn't have had so many issues with roots had I been wearing something like racing flats or Vibram Five Fingers.

After this experience I am thinking I want to pick up a pair of Vibram Bikilas and start doing a few "barefoot" miles every week. That should help strengthen my ankles, too. There was at least one woman running in Bikilas on Saturday and it definitely is an intriguing option for future trail races. My best friend is transitioning herself from motion control shoes to Five Fingers and really likes it. She is convinced that her feet feel stronger.