What can I do about shin splints?

[Oscarinski]

I am mid way through week three and really enjoying it ( although was shocked at how unfit I am). But I am finding shin splints are bad and it is in danger of putting me off. Any advice?? Thanks

[IannodaTruffe Mentor]

Welcome to the forum and well done on your progress.

This guide to the plan is essential reading healthunlocked.com/couchto5...

and includes advice on pacing, minimising impact and stretching after every run, as well as strengthening exercises, all of which will help.

Enjoy your journey.

[Hidden]

Drink lots of water, go slow, stretch and wear a good pair of trainers. I used to get them really bad but it's a very rare occurrence now.

[Tazzy_wazzy Graduate]

Run nice and slow, I’m sure you’ll be fine.

[Oscarinski in reply to Tazzy_wazzy]

Hello, I did just that this morning and tried not to over stride and it was better... lesson learnt

[Tazzy_wazzy Graduate in reply to Oscarinski]

That’s great x

[Rosebud67 Graduate]

I had this problem - terribly frustrating - and it is hard to know if it just normal muscle soreness or an injury. Some tips for getting through:

- after a run put ice on it (a bag of frozen peas!)

- deep hand massage the calf muscles or use a roller

- if it hurts more during a run, stop running for a few days until it is gone

- when you start running again, run really slowly, and make sure you land on your heel. If you have a tendency to pronate you might need orthotics (I got some from a podiatrist). You also need really good running shoes that are replaced as needed.

- don't over-stretch afterwards