Running and shin pain... Needling advice.

TminusFitnessN321
TminusFitnessN321 Posts: 58 Member
in Fitness and Exercise
Hello MFP peeps,

For the runners, how do you cope with running and shin pain? I can run for a while but I have to start walking because my shins start getting sore, not like a horrible pain... but it's enough for me to stop and just walk. Any tips?

Thanks!

Replies

  • csk0018
    csk0018 Posts: 219 Member
    I used to have shin splits regularly when I first started trying the C25K program. Once I got fitted for the correct shoes -- the shin splints went away mostly. The only time they came back was when it was time to get a new pair of shoes.

    If you haven't already -- you may want to go to a running store and get fitted. They can be pricey but it is worth it if you will be running a lot. Another option is to get fitted, find the shoe that you like and see if they are cheaper online. :smile:

    Also -- I did a lot of cycle/spin classes before I got back into running and I feel like that really helped strengthen my legs and helped with learning how to breathe correctly. I still go to spin class once a week even though I run 3 times a week now.

    Hope this helps. Good luck with your running!
  • brandiuntz
    brandiuntz Posts: 2,717 Member
    I haven't had shin splints, but a running partner did. Here's what I understand to do:

    1. Make sure you have proper shoes for your gait. Properly fitted shoes help prevent a lot of running injuries.

    2. Ice your shins after runs.

    3. Strengthen your calves.

    4. Consider compression sleeves. These helped my partner a lot.
  • BrianSharpe
    BrianSharpe Posts: 9,248 Member
    The most frequent culprit for shin splints is your footwear (either worn or inappropriate for your gait), it could also be just trying to do too much too soon too fast.

    If you haven't done so already go to a running specialty shop to have your gait analyzed and they will, most likely, suggest an appropriate type of shoe *(cushioning/neutral , stability etc). Try on several from the selection they suggest as no two company's shoes fit exactly the same also make sure the store has a return policy - most decent shops will let you try them on the road for 30 or 60 days.

    There are other possibility too such as weak calf muscles, weak hips and/or glutes.......here's a little reading for you:

    http://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/shin-splints

    http://www.runnersworld.com/tag/shin-splints

    try slowing down a little and don't worry if you feel you have to walk, running takes a lot of adaptation - work your way into it slowly.
  • TminusFitnessN321
    TminusFitnessN321 Posts: 58 Member
    Thank you guys for the advice, it all makes sense. I'm going to look into this. :drinker:

Categories