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Shin splints

Pegasus

Ex-Bluelighter
Joined
Aug 15, 2006
Messages
8,073
Eh... Those of you that have had them-- What do you say is best for them...? About how long realistically should I expect to have to rest?
 
Damn i got them a couple years ago and if u start running they just comeback every time. u just gotta slowly build up ur strength back like walking until u fine which can take awhile but be patient.
 
Try investing in different running shoes.

I developed shin splints from running in shoes with a fairly flat platform. (I have high arches)

After buying a pair of comfortable running shoes and gel-pads for the heels, my runs felt like I was bouncing on clouds. Otherwise I suggest taking a short break from running and doing alternative cardio until the pain in your shins disappears.
For me it took about a week and a half before I was back on the trails. It may be different depending on how long you've had them.

EDIT: R.I.C.E. never hurts to try!
 
I have to be constantly careful with how much I run because I get shin splints if I run more than 3 times a week.

When they were really bad it took about 2-3 weeks of complete rest from exercise for them to feel better. Switching up your cardio to say, cycling, swimming, kickboxing, elliptical/cross-trainer will help to avoid getting shin splints. Do leg weights as well (quads, hamstrings, and calves) to make sure your joints are well-supported.
I also find that applying ice to my shins after long runs helps as well.

Definitely invest in a good pair of running shoes that are comfortable, that are designed for your foot-type and get them fitted properly!! If you can afford it and are so inclined, go and see a podiatrist to get some orthotics fitted and to get some more personalised advice :)
 
Thanks for the tips. It was pouring rain yesterday and I ended up sprinting to my car as I left school, maybe 400m... an unwise choice. I'll definitely have to let them heal for a bit. :!
 
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Shin splints are a bitch. I get them from just walking sometimes because I land really hard on my heal with virtually no support in my shoes. I've had to stop running even though I really enjoy it but the pain afterwards isn't worth it.

My doctor recommends wrapping your shin to physically hold the tendon and bone together and icing your shins after running in addition to resting a couple of days.
 
I've had to stop running even though I really enjoy it but the pain afterwards isn't worth it.
That really sucks hun. I get really depressed if I can't run, it's like my natural anti-depressant :)
What if you get some really good quality running shoes, and maybe with some appropriate additional support in them? I have these squishy orthotics which provide a bit of arch-support to avoid pronation of my ankles, but they also absorb a fair amount of impact/shock. Maybe something like that could help you? I don't know what you've already tried though...


Also, for those that are interested, a good protocol for applying ice to sore joints is:
Apply ice (wrapped in a towel to avoid damage to the skin) for 15-20 minutes, once every hour.
You can continue this procedure for several hours, or even for a day or two if the area is really swollen/sore/damaged (obviously in which case you should also see a doctor/physiotherapist ;)).
 
For me, the only thing that works is not running. I cycle these days and like it more then running anyways. The repetitive movement in long distance running is not for everyone.
 
Like what most of them said, running shoes can save you from painful shin splits. Oddly enough, I've found the nike pegasus shoes the most comfortable. I have weak arches and solid arch support prevents shin splits for me.
 
A friend told me he had his healed by getting them massaged by a PT.. This apparently made the inflammation more acute (he told me it hurt like hell) after which it disappeared in an instant. I am still abstaining for running and eating mostly paleo now to see if it has any effect.
 
Bumping this thread as I've started being plagued by awful shin splints (ever since I've upped my running to three times a week). :(

I'm going to buy a new pair of running shoes first, a look into 'squishy' orthotics (gel inserts). Can I get these from a sports store?

Also, several people have mentioned strapping my shins - how would I do that? Does anyone have an illustration or description as to where the pressure should be applied? I'm concerned it would all come away as I run and annoy me. :p

I will only go to a podiatrist if I have to.. Busty went recently and the price is a little prohibitive ($390 for orthotics even counting private health rebates, plus consultation fees! 8o ).

Some great information in this thread, though - thanks guys! :)
 
Something no one has brought up that I think is a big factor.... What are you running ON? pavement? a treadmill? trails?
 
Bumping this thread as I've started being plagued by awful shin splints (ever since I've upped my running to three times a week). :(

I'm going to buy a new pair of running shoes first, a look into 'squishy' orthotics (gel inserts). Can I get these from a sports store?

Also, several people have mentioned strapping my shins - how would I do that? Does anyone have an illustration or description as to where the pressure should be applied? I'm concerned it would all come away as I run and annoy me. :p

I will only go to a podiatrist if I have to.. Busty went recently and the price is a little prohibitive ($390 for orthotics even counting private health rebates, plus consultation fees! 8o ).

Some great information in this thread, though - thanks guys! :)

DON'T DO IT! Don't give into the hype! Run on the balls and you'll make quite a hike!
 
i have one of the most destructive arthritic conditions one could hope for, because it can be any arthritic condition it wants to be...reactive-progressive-permanent. just saying i know a few things about this annnd


i dont take medications because, i dont need them .

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