Front of shin discomfort while running

I like this post
http://community.myfitnesspal.com/en/discussion/322021/help-with-your-shin-splints

Personally, I would not stop, especially if they are mild. When I started running, the advice I was given was to stop. I got nowhere. I'd run, get shin splints, stop, run, get shin splints, stop. I was running for a fitness test and finally got to the point where I HAD to run. I eventually ran through them. It was painful as anything but I did.
I don't recommend that but I would recommend continuing to run but making changes like running on a softer surface for a while, cutting back on distance if needed, etc.

I agree with what everyone here has said. When I started c25k, I had some moderate shin pain as well. I have a history of sport related shin splits partially due to the shape of my arches. But I went to a running store, had my gait tested, bought real running shoes, and just kept with the running program. Running a few days a week with rest days in between builds up your strength, and the shin pain was gone by week 2 for me. So, I'd just make sure your beginning program has rest days built in for recovery while your body strengthens up.

Now I just need to get better at stretching my calves...

nicola8989 wrote: »

Thank you - that's exactly it I don't want to stop because the pain would just start again when I started back up! I know they are quite common in beginners - I'm not sure how you tell if it's just a bit of pain or shin splints? Is all shin pain shin splints??

All shin pain is not necessarily shin splints, but it's the most likely considering the scenario. If you carefully monitor it and consult a professional if you're not getting relief, you'll be okay.

Very common in new runners. Walk down hills for a few weeks instead of running . Stretch by walking 10 yards on your tippy toes, 10 yards on your heels with your toes lifted, 10 yards on the outside of your feet and 10 yards on the inside. Repeat. Do this before or after runs for a week or two.

nicola8989 wrote: »

this is fab, thank you everyone - cblue is the picture compression socks?

I really don't want to give up or rest, I feel like I'm finally starting to get a bit better. My programme does involve walking when I need to and it's led by a professional

I will definitely go and get my gait tested again as I never ran in the store I only walked - so how could they tell what my gait was like?

You make a great point. My running and walking stride/gait are SO different!

nicola8989 wrote: »

I might try the compression guards first and see if they make a difference before I get new shoes -what do you think? (Just thinking of the expense as my running shoes have only had about 2 weeks of running on them!)

Before you spend any money, try the stretching mentioned above and icing. Shoes are really important though! If you're going to run long term, they will change your life.

It sounds like shin splints... but the fact that you're only on your 5th run makes me skeptical of that. I've had them and yes they start mild. I tried to keep running through them (was training for a 25K) and ended up barely being able to walk after a month. I tried stretching, strenght exercises, ice, compression socks, ibuprofen, biofreeze, tiger balm, KT tape, even went back to see if my fitted shoes weren't right for me any more. The only thing that helped me was stopping running.

My questions.. 4 or 5 runs in how many days? Were you active before you started running? If you are JUST starting running or working out and weren't very active before it's entirely possible that you're just sore and it will go away in a few days. But true shin splints developing within 4 runs is pretty unlikely (not saying it's impossible).

nicola8989 wrote: »

thank you - I started at the end of June and I'm doing 3 runs a week. I did cycling on an exercise bike before but I had to have a month break because I had a virus.

I'm also thinking - should I reconsider the shoes I wear during the day when not running? My work shoes are just little ballet flats with thin soles and not very much support - might changing these make a difference?

Still not an expert, but from personal experience, I get sore shins from walking long distances in flat shoes. I have a decent arch to my foot, don't know your structure. Also, my ballet flats don't stay on as well after they stretch out and my compensation when walking to keep them on makes me sore.

@pzarnosky How long did you have to stop running for before you started back? I have tried everything and now finally stopped running for a bit.

pzarnosky wrote: »

adescut wrote: »

@pzarnosky How long did you have to stop running for before you started back? I have tried everything and now finally stopped running for a bit.

I had to stop completely for a month It took 2 weeks for the pain to start to go down because I was at the point where any pressure on my right leg was incredibly painful. Then I slowly started working my way back into it. What I found was that tredmills are a no go for me. People like them because they are softer than pavement so it's more cushioned. For me it's too soft and my body doesn't do well with it. I stay off the tredmill and stick with pavement, gravel, or trails and am pain free

Thank you. Theres hope then.

nicola8989 wrote: »

I emailed the shop I got my trainers from and they recommended I go for some with a flatter heel to prevent shin splints - what do you think?

Get an evaluation done before spending the money is my thought. I won't buy shoes until I physically spend time in the lm being evaluated and running. Not saying they are wrong, but don't order them online or anything.