Shin splints!

[Rustyy]

So I'm confidently running now, but I've got horrible shin splints in my right leg. Any tips on how to ease the pain while running? I cannot physically run any slower!! Also, after running what can I do to help? Thanks

[Visionon Graduate]

Hello Rustyy, I experienced the same but in my left leg, I bought some compression socks which have helped, I have also noticed that as the weeks have worn on its slowly getting less and less of an issue, on am now on week 6 and it has almost gone. You can also use a foam roller to massage the area and I found a particular stretch helped, sit on a chair, place you leg under the chair and behind your torso, with the top of your foot on the floor and stretch the muscle at the front of your shin, hope that makes sense... However, I think that it is caused by the fact that your legs are just not used to running and the pounding they receive and it just takes a time to get used to it. Good luck!

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Shin splints are partially the result of the impact of running, so reduce that impact.

Slow down, avoid heelstriking, keep footfall under your body not out in front, run on grass or treadmill and wear proper running shoes fitted after a gait analysis done at a specialist running shop.

They will reduce as you strengthen.

[Penelopesimmons Graduate in reply to IannodaTruffe]

I had a horrible time with my shins in the early weeks - so I took more rest days, always tried to avoid heel striking, and found that keeping footfall under neath me had an almost magical effect - thanks IannodaTruffe - I also made a really conscious effort not to over-stride when doing the brisk walking, hope things improve

[Rustyy]

Hi there! I've recently bought some new running shoes and looking to buy some compression socks. I've not been able to run in almost a week partly due to the shin splints and partly due to my asthma. But hoping to get out again this week!! Thanks to both of you