Sore shins!

[sarahb_20]

Completed first run on week 3 tonight! Wasn't as bad as expecting and I had a good breathing pattern so in really pleased, only problem was I had really sore shins whilst running. I'm guessing its because I'm running for longer but could really do without the pain! Please help!!

[ashton46 Graduate]

Shin Splints seem to be very common with folk who start running. I got them when I started the C25K program and from reading this forum for the past few months I know many others did as well.

Much of the advise online will suggest investing in some good quality running shoes. Personally I couldn't stretch to that so I bought some gel innersoles for my trainers off eBay (about a tenner) and they made a difference and still run with them months later.

Also look up some stretches to try help, something like this:

gizmodo.com/5902699/banish-...

Don't let them get the better of you, it will get better over time.

Good luck!

[sarahb_20]

thanks for the advice! il try the innersoles out!

[Oldgirl Graduate]

Hi Sarah, yes shin pain is a common thing when people first start running. I had it but didn't have the complete full blown shin splints pain. I stretched well after each run, ran the shower on my lower legs with icy cold water, also put a wet hand towel into the freezer to cool and wrapped it around my lower legs if they still ached later in the day. I also adjusted my foot stride to a mid foot strike as apposed to a heal strike first. I think that made the biggest difference to my problem. Hope it settles down which I'm sure it will as your legs get used to running.

[sarahb_20]

thank you OldGirl. I will try out your tips!

[RokensWife Graduate in reply to sarahb_20]

How are your shins? I have terrible shin pain! X