Shin Splints
Preventing shin splints
Source: NHS
In this topic (7)
The following measuresmay help reduceyour chances of gettingshin splints:
- wear trainers with appropriate cushioning and supportit may help tospeak to an expert ata specialist running shop for advice if you're buying running shoes for the first time
- run and train on flat, soft surfaces, such as a recreation ground or playing field, whenever possible
- introduce any changes to your activity level gradually
- mix high-impact exercises like running with low-impact exercises likeswimming
- lose weight if you're overweight
- improve your overall strength and flexibility
- warm up before exercising and stretch after exercising in particular, stretching your calves and the front of your legs may help
Speak to a foot specialist called a podiatrist if youhave flat feetor your feet roll inwards. They may recommend supportive inserts for your shoes (orthotics) to reduce the pressure on your shins.
Articles for Shin Splints
Causes of shin splints
It's not always clear what causes shin splints. They're usually brought on by running or repetitive weight bearing on the legs. It's thought this leads to swelling (inflammation) of the tissue around
Introduction
Find out what shin splints are, how they happen, and what you can do about them.
Other causes of lower leg pain
Pain in the lower legs and shins can also be caused by: stress fractures (tinycracks in the bone) the pain often affects one leg, but can affect both,and is usually focused in a small area; there ma
Preventing shin splints
The following measuresmay help reduceyour chances of gettingshin splints: wear trainers with appropriate cushioning and supportit may help tospeak to an expert ata specialist running shop for advice
Symptoms of shin splints
The main symptom of shin splints is pain inthe shin bones, which run down the front of yourlower legs. The pain tends to: begin soon after starting exercise gradually improve when resting sometime
Treating shin splints at home
Shin splints can usually be treated at home. The followingmay help relieve the pain and allow your legs toheal: rest stop the activity that causes your shin splints for at least two to three weeks;
When to see your GP
It's a good idea to see your GP if your pain doesn't improve despite the treatments mentioned above. Your GP may: ask about your symptoms and examine your legs to try to work out what's causing you
