Shin Splints: Runners of all levels fear this dreaded affliction. Although normally striking newer runners, even seasoned ground-pounders can be sidetracked by this painful problem. Let’s go over the facts, and some tips to help you prevent or treat your injury.
What are shin splints? There can be many causes, but a simple way to explain it is pain along the shin bone due to inflammation in the area and the muscle pulling forcefully on the bone – OUCH! Shin splints should not be ignored as they can progress into a stress fracture if left untreated.
The first line of treatment is R.I.C.E. therapy — rest, ice, compression and elevation. (Don’t forget, Bauerfeind is the C in R.I.C.E., but more on this later). So first, rest. The major cause of shin splints is ramping up your running distance, frequency or intensity too quickly. At the first sign of shin pain, take some well-deserved time off. If resting simply is not in your nature, switch to biking or swimming for a little while; these activities are not as stressful on the shins.