Shin Splints

Q: Hi my name is Colin. I have recently taken up running and since have felt this pain running along my shin. What is going on and how can I fix it?

A: Colin, you are experiencing what is most often referred to as shin splints. There are a few things that can trigger them; starting into a new exercise, increasing intensity too quickly, improper footwear or old running shoes, exercising on hard surfaces and weakness of the leg muscles. This problem can be managed through icing after running, gradually increasing exercise intensity, changing the route in which you run and possibly even changing your footwear. There are also many things Athletic therapy can do to help improve the problem such as heat therapy, gradual stretching and strengthening and manual therapy to improve the alignment of the foot and lower leg.

- Jenn Bell CAT(C) - Dynamic Sports Therapy Burlington
www.dynamicsportstherapy.ca