Shin Splints

It’s time for the “end of the summer, start of the season, let’s not get shin splints” blog.

OK – shin splints, now also known as Tibial Stress Syndrome are a family of conditions which cause pain in, well, the shins. Probably the most common are the medial (inside of the shin) variety. Common causes include overtraining, over pronation, and inappropriate footwear.

Example – a 17 year old soccer player pretty much does nothing all summer. Then, two weeks before practice he says, “uh oh, I need to get in shape,” and starts running. He’s still wearing his sneakers from last winter, and he is running on the street.

Three days later, he’s limping around with shin pain. Then there’s the athlete who works hard all summer, is in great shape, goes to practice in August, and promptly gets shin splints. Sometimes, they come on, in spite of all efforts to the contrary.

So, what to do:

1. Avoid overtraining – too much too fast will get you every time.
2. Cross Train – too much of one thing is never good.
3. Wear good shoes – lots of support.
4. Wear the correct shoes – basketball shoes are for basketball, not for running.
5. Run on level, compliant surfaces.
6. If you are an overpronator, talk to your doctor or trainer – orthotics may help.

If you get shin splints, you need to ice and rest. When you return to activity, take it easy, and follow the above suggestions.