I was forced into planting and not sliding! At 57 years of age a disability hit, and all of a sudden a long (12") slide went into ZERO. I almost face planted on the lane the first time I returned. I am also a former Jr A hockey player, and former professional referee in hockey, so my knees are not in great shape to start with.
It has taken over 2 years to begin to regain my prior game, from the approach, to timing, to release. My speed went up, my revs increased immensely, but accuracy was gone...all over the place due to timing. I had several top coaches help, but still it took over 2 years, and I am still 15-20 pins under my former averages.
Pain, yes sir, very much so especially the following morning. But I knew I would need a knee replacement soon. So for the love of the game I continue.
Would I advise anyone to willingly go to planting? NO! Try every imaginable sole, slide socks, whatever there is. I did, even a Dexter 10 sole cut and added as my heel.