Shin splints?

[Scooter69]

Help! Run 1 of week 8 done and going well but shin splints! Never had them before. What next?

[Diddysparks]

I used to get these when I was trying road running before starting this app. I used to get them really bad but found changing trainers helped me. Someone suggested some stretches to help them but as for a cure I would love to know too as well. On a treadmill at moment doing week 1 of the app.

[sallenson Graduate]

If your shoes are good and you've been gait analysed then you've either introduced some hills into your route (and aren't taking smaller steps) or you're over-striding. Smaller steps will normally cure the problem. Probably compounded by being in W8 and so running faster than you used to.

Best short-term solution is rest and bags of frozen peas and Ibuprofen. If they move from being sore into real shin splints then you're looking at the potential for a fracture. Don't want that to happen. So rest up for bit and watch your stride length.

I'm sure someone authoritative will come along in a moment add some more advice. Right now, just rest up a bit.

[Scooter69 Graduate in reply to sallenson]

Thanks. Trainers are good. Route unchanged. Great advice on stride length - it probably gets longer as you get fitter and more confident. Should get my gait checked as well. I’m resting but trying not to go backwards by doing some non weight bearing stuff.

[cheryl_couch_tatty Graduate]

This happened to me at about W6. Rested for about a week and bought some new trainers after checking my gait. Now back on track and just started W9, so far no problems. I make sure I do stretches after my run too. Had a good read about it on NHS online etc.

I really think the best advice is gait check and good trainers.

Good luck!

[Tasha99 Graduate]

My shins have started to bother me. Not sure it’s actually shin splints though. A foam roller definitely helps. I got mine in Aldi last week for £5.99 👍🏽