Kara Goucher shares diagnosis with neurological disorder

Duluth runner Kara Goucher, the world championship silver medalist, Olympic competitor, and Grandma’s Marathon winner, has been diagnosed with focal dystonia. It’s a form of neuropathy in her feet.

Goucher announced the news Tuesday on Instagram.

The disorder is characterized by involuntary muscle contractions, which can affect any part of the body. For Goucher, it has meant falls while running, and problems staying on her feet.

She says she’s thankful it’s not something more serious, but is taking it seriously because if she doesn’t cut back on her running she could lose her ability to walk all together.