Shin Splints: Why Do They Last Forever?
Shin splints, I hate. Shin splints and I are not friends. Shin splints stick around like that girl who doesn’t want to be with you but doesn’t want you to leave. “Shin splints, I curse you without fear of metaphysical consequences! “ I lied.
Shin splints are those first warning signs for people trying to get back into shape. “Okay, enough for today. Try to develop the will to do it again tomorrow,” they’ll shout at you. Shin splints are typical in how they show up amongst the active and athletic people, as well as those packing a extra few pounds, but are atypical because, like that girl who won’t let you leave, shin splints are symptoms of several possible problems.
Shin Splint Symptoms
- Pain on the shin towards the inner leg
- Tender areas around the shin
- Pain that flares up in the shin during activity
- Throbbing pain when crunching / flexing the foot
- Bumps on inner shin bone
- General pain on shin
Shin Splint Causes
- A worn or overworked muscle
- Improper footwear when exercising (Don’t run in sandals [not that I would know])
- Bad running technique (hint: lift your legs instead of shuffling your feet)
- Compartment syndrome – swelling or irritation that cuts of circulation
Shin Splint Treatments
- Rest
- Use proper footwear (those designed to absorb shock)
- Tape up your shins to balance out the pressure
- Pain relieving medications – Iburprofren and the like
- Ice and heat treatments – 20 minutes ice / 20 mins heat / 20 mins ice…
- Stretching to release tension
Like the girl who won’t let you leave, if your shin splints start to develop a lack of feeling or discoloration, seek medical attention immediately. I’d find it hard to imagine that anyone would want to run the risk of losing the lower leg due to inaction.
For more online information, please consult the following as well.
Please take care of yourself,
- Martin
Do you have any sports injuries or home remedies you would like to share? Comment and tell us!
