I have always had a problem with these. Sometimes I'll get them so bad I can't walk....other times they are fine for 45 minutes on the treadmill. Anyhow, is stretching a good way of preventing them? I always thought it was stress related, not a pull or a cramp that can be prevented by stretching. I wouldnt even be sure how to stretch them other than laying down and pointing my toes out. Any ideas?


DOUG

http://www.rice.edu/~jenky/sports/shin.html

This is a great article. It explains the mechanics behind a shin splint, which can help you prevent them in the future.

If you run on a regular basis, I would suggest a good pair of running shoes. Not just athletic, but ones designed specifically for running. It will cost you anywhere between $90-$150, but it is worth it. There are a bunch of different types of running shoes-more arch support, less arch support. The sales person should look at your feet and watch you walk with your shoes off before they ever bring a pair out for you to try. We have a couple of stores that specialize in running gear-If you have any there, I would recommend going that route.

I hope this helps.

Here's another article that someone posted on these forums a while back. It correlates with the article zkat posted.
shin spints treatment (http://www.sportsinjurybulletin.com/archive/0161-shin-splints-treatment.htm)

Thanks for the articles. I try the stretches tomorrow, and if anyone cares, I'll post how my cardio treated my shins.


DOUG

Both of those links are awesome explanations with good prep work. Two things in my expirience that has seemed to help with the pain in the shins are new shoes and making an effort to lean back when you run.

The leaning (essentially standing up straight) sounds obvious if you're a runner - but myself and others I have ran with noticed newer runners have a tendency to lean forward almost hunched over when they run. All that weight on your shins will definately bump up the soreness factor.

Just something to consider. :gl:

Not to say you are wrong, but have you been medically diagnosed with shin splints? The reason I ask is actually humorous.

I thought I was getting them from basketball, and had suffered for about a 1 1/2 years before going to the doctor. When I got there, he examined me and asked some questions. Came to the conclusion that I have some Patella (something) Syndrome. In Lehmans terms, I'm fat and my leg muscles are tired of dealing with it...

That's my 2Cents.