Pain Running - How To Cure It

What are shin splints? If you have ever been a serious runner, whether for competition or just your own health, you know that they are terrible and deep pains in your calves. Shin splint pains seem to cut right to the bone and they can slow you down or even prevent you from being able to run (and perhaps even walk right).

Technically, shin splints is inflammation of the Tibialis Anterior muscle at the front of your shins. They usually afflict people who are newer to running, because in those people the muscles haven't had time to strengthen to the the level necessary to absorb all the constant impact-stress from the pounding the legs and feet take during a run. But also, shin splints can be caused by poor stretching habits, trying to go too fast or too far too soon, running on hard roads when it's not necessary, and poorly-fitting or poor quality footwear--all of which are things that beginner runners are more apt to engage in.

Therefore, a great deal of shin splint treatment begins with doing things differently. It should be noted, however, that if shin splint treatment may also involve hot and cold treatments such as the application of Icy Hot or whirlpool treatment. Also, when you first realize that you are experiencing shin splints, stop running for at least three days and apply alternating treatments of ice and heat.

So - run on various surfaces, not just hard surfaces. In fact, only run on hard surfaces when you've got no other choice. Unless you are a very experienced runner, you should only increase your speed or your mileage, never both at the same time; and either increase must be done gradually. Keep your running shoes updated; one pair probably won't last you longer than six months. Also, if your running shoes seem to you that they are either too tight or too loose, they probably are--get a different pair. And make sure your running shoes are specifically designed as running or cross-training shoes--if they are hiking sneakers or "tennis shoes" they are not fit for running.

Stretching after you run is even more important than stretching before you run. Make sure you always do. Also, when you first go out for your run, always warm up by running slowly for the first five minutes or so.

If your shin splints continue, while you don't want to rush this decision, you may want to consider that running is not for you, and you should take up something like bicycling, rowing, racquetball, or some other way of getting the workout you want.

If you would like to discover more about how to treat and possibly cure Running Shin Splints please follow the link.

All the best,

Carol J Pearson
(Sports Therapist, Personal Trainer & Pilates Instructor)