New Balance sells cheaper shoes... you just ended up in the top of the line. Of course, your post begs the questoin of why your doctor recommended New Balance in the first place. Most likely you were in the wrong shoe and your doctor figured you needed something with support to avoid a repeat performance of the injury. Perhaps New Balance was all he knew? However; they are not the only kid on the block.

I would strongly recommend going to a running store (e.g. Fleet Feet) so you can be correctly fitted with a selection of brands across various price ranges. I assure you, there are many options less than $145. Just look at runningwarehouse.com or roadrunnersports.com to get an idea of the choices and prices for shoes in the same catergory as the ones you purchased (Motion Control, Stability, or Neutral/Cushioned). In the end you may find that your $145 NBs are "THE ONE" but check your options first.