Shin pain.. Help me, I wanna be a runner!

azdisneymama

I've been using the elliptical for a really long time. I went out and tried to do some jogging and failed. The front of my lower leg hurts every time my foot hits the ground. Is it my age(38), my weight? (175)? Is there anything I can do? Please help me!

_Waffle_

Calf stretches, shin muscle exercises (Draw the alphabet in the air with your toes) a couple times a day, ice your shins after you run for 15 minutes, be patient. You'll eventually get used to it but it won't be overnight and it won't happen if you quit.

EDIT: Don't run if the pain is severe and switch to a lower impact exercise like walking or the elliptical till it feels better. Soreness after running is normal.

DeputySox

How many miles do you have on your running shoes? If they are old or worn out, may want to go get a gait analysis at a running shoe store. Good luck!

kliermann

Heat before stretch and ice after

tmm_0127

Try getting some good sole inserts and make sure you have good shoes on - depending on your foot shape / arch height you could just be wearing the wrong style shoe. Get in a good warm up (try not to do too many static stretches until after your jog), make sure you're hydrated, focus on your form and strike pattern (heel, arch, ball - you shouldn't be striking too flat on the ground).

azdisneymama

Thanks everyone! I'm definitely going to try all of it!