Shin Splints: What a pain in the leg!
Posted November 29th, 2006 at 4:00 PM by Jonathan Faccone
Section: Running & Training, Injury & Rehab, Health & Fitness, Injury & Rehab
One of the most common nuisances for athletes, and especially runners, is having to deal with shin splints. Anyone who has experienced pain in the front part of their lower leg, possibly some swelling and/or other shin-area irritation has likely had the unfortunate (albeit very common) experience of shin splints. They can be incredibly irritating, painful and can even impede on your performance and/or training regimen.
The scientific term for shin splints is traction periostitis and they occur when the legs are subjected to constant pounding (often from running on hard surfaces such as asphalt or concrete sidewalks). Shin splints are even more common for new runners or runners who have recently increased their weekly mileage, running surface or training intensity because their legs are just not used to the stress. That’s why it’s important to remember to take such changes slowly. This will help to prevent shin splints and a myriad of other common running injuries.
Marathon runners and experienced athletes also face the risk of developing shin splints as a result of overexertion. This can be extremely detrimental to their training because they’ll be forced to stop their activities, seek treatment and allow their legs to rest. Trying to ignore the pain is not advisable as they’ll only get worse and the pain will increase exponentially.
Running Times offers a couple of pointers for preventing shin splints. First, wear the right shoe and possible choose one with extra cushioning in order to minimize the pressure and impact placed on legs. Additionally, since shin splints are an overuse injury, increasing your mileage and/or intensity of training should be done incrementally. Also, try building up and strengthening your calf muscles. This has been shown to help minimize potential leg injuries. Lastly, minimize swelling by icing your shins after your run and subsequently allow yourself sufficient rest so your body can properly recover from the rigors of training.
If you’re already suffering from shin splints and wondering what you can do to treat it, WebMD and myself agree that rest is of utmost importance. Also, to help speed the recovery process shin splints should be treated using ice packs, warm soaks, protective wraps, and anti-inflammatory medications. If your pain persists or you are unable to prevent them in the future, consult your orthopedists and/or podiatrist about orthotics, your foot type (to help you select the right pair of shoes) and other treatment options.
***Note: We encourage EVERYONE to see a doctor before altering their diet, taking a supplement and/or performing athletic, fitness or other strenuous physical activity. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any information, instruction, opinion or advice contained in the content. Please also see our complete disclaimer.***
Sources: [Running Times], [WebMD]
***Note: We encourage EVERYONE to see a doctor before altering their diet, taking a supplement and/or performing athletic, fitness or other strenuous physical activity. It is your responsibility to evaluate the accuracy, completeness and usefulness of any information, instruction, opinion or advice contained in the content. Please also see our complete disclaimer.***
Tags: anti inflammatory, ice, injury prevention, intensity, mileage, orthotics, rest, shin splints, shoes, traction periostitis, treatment
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