Shin Pain

[char377]

Hi everyone!

I am on week 2 of the programme (just finished the first run today) and everything was good apart from this terrible pain in my shins. My friend suggested that they may be shin splints however there is no visible swelling or pain when I press down and the pain is only there when I am walking briskly, not when I am running.

I was wondering if anyone else has experienced this and if it is a serious issue. I understand that it is not recommended to run when having shin splints so maybe I would need to consider stopping. What are your thoughts?

[Getslim1971]

In work in health and it sounds very much like shin splints, you shouldn't carry on running if this is the case and use ice on the affected areas. Shin splints can take weeks or even months to heal, hopefully you have caught it early.

[char377 in reply to Getslim1971]

How long would you suggest stopping for? I'm just at the start of my couch to 5k journey so would really hate to stop now. Won't the same thing just happen if I wait and start again?

[ButtercupKid Graduate]

If you’re concerned, the best thing is to see a qualified medic as soon as possible, and don’t run till you’ve had advice from them. If they clear you to run, take it slowly - embrace your inner snail, as they say around here - and if possible, avoid tarmac and paving as much as you can: choose surfaces which will reduce the impact on your legs. Hope you’re back out there soon x

[Jazzyd Graduate]

I had pain after the first session. I got some proper running shoes and slowed down. Got some exercises from a physio friend and and slowed down. And compression socks. Makes sure I warmed up and down properly. I carried on and now have no pain but I did take expert advice x

[davelinks Graduate]

Proper shin splints can take upto 8 weeks to clear. You haven't done much and hopefully it's just a bit of new starters pain, it happens.

Jazzyd's post is the best way to go..

[Neilos1970 Graduate]

I suffered with my shins and still do occasionally I had to take longer rests inbetween runs but it will get better. Look at different trainers this is what helped me and reduce the the pains in my shins