Going for a run can be a GREAT form of exercise! It can also be a useful form of transportation when you need to catch the Bus or when you have to get somewhere in a hurry! Some individuals may notice a throbbing pain in their shins after going for a run. This can be a condition known asĀ Shin Splints.
The medical term forĀ Shin SplintsĀ is known to be āMedial Tibial Stress Syndromeā, and it is the stress on the connective tissues that attach the muscles to your bones. Some causes toĀ Shin SplintsĀ can include; flat feet, improper fitting shoes, working out without stretching or warming up, and weak ankles or hips.
If you are not very active to begin with, you may notice that after getting some vigorous exercise your shins may start to cramp up. This sudden change in your body can causeĀ Shin SplintsĀ as you need to adapt to the higher intensity of exercise.
Shin SplintsĀ can discourage you from reaching your full potential in your workouts, daily life and even in your favourite activities. Luckily, we have a few treatment methods that you can use to help relieve the pain fromĀ Shin Splints.
The first and most effective treatment method is to use a pair of custom orthotics! These are inserts that fit seamlessly in your shoes and help add support to areas of your feet that are lacking. Orthotics will relieve the strain being faced on your shins, and this will reduce the frequency that you getĀ Shin Splints.
If custom orthotics are out of your budget, you can also try using over the counter insoles that can be purchased from our clinics or online. These insoles can also be customized to your feet, but they are much more affordable than custom orthotics are. That being said, these are not as effective as custom orthotics are ā but it is better than no added support at all!
The next thing you can do when you notice yourĀ Shin SplintsĀ returning is to rest! Do NOT push yourself. Allow time for your body to recover and avoid pushing yourself until you recover. UsuallyĀ Shin SplintsĀ go away on their own, so when you are faced with them, just allow for a few days of rest between vigorous activities.
The last thing you can do if you have tried all the previous methods is to take an anti-inflammatory painkiller and use ice on your shins. This will help your muscles constrict and will reduce the swelling and pain associated from theĀ Shin Splints. This method is a last resort, so try the previous 2 methods before taking any medication.
