uh oh-pain in front of legs....do i need to see doc/physio?

jillfrd

oh noes....i think the shin splints are back. (I had then about 10 years ago when I was doing elite gymnastics, but it was higher, just under my knee, and both legs). very painful on the front of my right leg, about 3-4 inches above my ankle. there's a specific spot if i touch it really hurts. started a few hours after my run yesterday. hurts most if i try to flex my foot, also hurts to point my food (makes driving really hard!)

do I need to see doctor/physio? or just ice and hope it goes away?

janf15

I would see either. However, make sure it is someone who at least have an interest in sports medicine. When you go, bring your shoes - your wear may be an indication how you run and that can explain why you are getting them. - Also, you may start out and see what your running store says. It might be a matter of your shoes being worn.

You may have a great health care provider, but the reason I mention sports medicine is because they have a different understanding of the needs of a runner.

I hope that helps.

tigersword

Could be shin splints, could be a tendon tear or sprain, could be a stress fracture. Only way to know is go to a doctor.

jillfrd

whew! thankfully it went away by itself a few days however this has prompted me to get new runners and some insoles

BackwoodsMom

Try icing your shins before and/or after your run. Also, stretch before your run by turning your toes in and lean into a wall. Be careful of downhills as they put a lot of stress on already sore shins. It may take some rest from running and doing some non-impact exercise - bicycling, elliptical, etc. - to let them heal. It can get to the point where you CAN'T run so be careful and get an opinion from a sports medicine dr.