Crazy shin splints

ratkaj

Hi All! -

I started running a few months ago, I have done a few things to make sure I'm prepared:

1. have increased my distance and speed slowly over the last few months
2. bought new shoes (Saucony Omni shoes) from a running store that analyzed my running style.
3. added inserts for arch support (after the shin splints started, helped only on the right leg)

I am running on average 3-5 miles each run (last night 3.1 miles) but my legs then hurt so bad that I can't go the next day. I stretch after I run and I do a 5 minute walk to warm up and to cool down.

Anyone know what to do about this??

PS. The shin splints are on the inside of my shins. I know that makes a big difference.

BECav0602

I also have shin splints on the inside of my legs! I would love to hear some suggestions on how to avoid them in the future (I also have running shoes and inserts from a store that analyzed my running). I think I did too much too soon.

The only thing that helped mine feel better is to ice 15 min several times a day and then put a heat after icing. Oh, and I did the elliptical or bike only 3 times a week and took the rest of the days off or did a little strength training on those days I wasn't doing cardio. Rest is ultimately what will make them feel better.

Rachaely

From one runner to the next, my best advice: bear with it. Shin splints (like plantar fasciitis), plague most runners.

Are you running on the roads, an indoor track or the treadmill? If you're running outside, run on the roads, NOT the sidewalk. It may not seem like a big difference but it adds up over time. Also try to run on grass if possible (I can't because my ankles are too weak). If you're running on the treadmill, have someone watch your stride and make sure you aren't holding yourself abnormally. Lastly, ICE ICE ICE. It soothes the pain and although it may not cure it, it'll help after a run. Building a tolerance will help you eventually not even notice the pain. (Buy a cheap bag of frozen veggies, it works great as an ice pack.)

I started out with Saucony's and LOVED them. However, after years of shin splints and the aforementioned plantar fasciitis, I went to another store to get analyzed and was told that the Saucony's were too heavy for me (I now swear by Brookes Adrenaline). Saucony's are a great shoe for support and for wide feet, but you may not need that much weight. Sometimes that can make shin splits worse because of the pounding on your feet bringing down additional weight (shoes + inserts).