Shin splits - What is it you ask?
Well pain on either side of the shin bone or Tibia or that long bone on your leg below the knee. Common problem for most new runners and some seasoned runners too.
Shin splints are an overuse injury to the tibial (shin) region of the leg, caused by repetitive impact and strain on the shin and surrounding tissues. Shin splints occur when frequent stress on the shin exceeds the
body’s capacity to recover from micro-damage caused by the stress
How does it feel like?
Well crappy to say the least! :-) In typical cases, shin splints pain is usually felt two-thirds of the way down the tibia, just off the inside edge of the bone.
In the early stages, shin splints pain is usually felt at the beginning of a run and then normally subsides during the training session itself. Commonly, symptoms also tend to reduce a few minutes after a given run session has finished.
Why it happens? Weak calf muscle, over use of calf muscle and the Tibial Bending!
Wait.. WTH is Tibial bending?:
Imagine pole vaulter.. see how much the pole bends to hoist the athlete.. well that is good for a pole vaulter. But the same thing can happen on your Tibia when you run causing that slight bending of the tibial bone (leg bone) and boom - Shin pain!
How to treat you ask?
Firstly this is overuse injury.. so reduce running for some time
ICE ICE ICE... it works like a CHARM
Focussed foam roller on the pain area to remove knots..
Running form: Increase cadence, reduce stride length .. so your foot lands closer to the body. Akin to the pole vaulter placing the pole much close.. so far less bending and voila you are reducing the tibial bending situation and hence shin pain!
I want to learn more.. how? Check this https://www.kinetic-revolution.com/what-causes-shin-splints-in-runners/
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A few quick tips to weigh,
1. Run on Softer Surfaces (avoid concrete or asphalt) during recovery
2. Personally not a fan of compression bandages or compression socks as a first step. Also, avoid popping in OTC anti-inflammatory medication, such as aspirin or ibuprofen as a first response to pain. Start with icing and give rest to allow body to strengthen itself.
3. Make sure the running shoes are good.
4. Strength Training (heel raises or toe raises) and stretch your calf area post run.
If pain persists, consult your doctor.