[annouhMus]

I used to get shin splints all the time, but don't seem to get them at all now. I have heard that they are caused by an imbalance in strength in the muscles in your legs. I'd talk to a fitness trainer and maybe try some strength training in your legs.

Funny thing is...when I started doing leg lifts and other things...the splints went away but once I stopped they came right back....ugh....at least I know what I have to do.

[grizolsemn]

I walk a half mile and start out naturally and end almost a speedwalkers pace, but I usually do stay in the grass. It helps alot. I have to stay off of treadmills, they kill my shins. I agree with shoes, they make more of a difference than we give them credit for.

[S.T.D.]

I used to get shin splints all the time, but don't seem to get them at all now. I have heard that they are caused by an imbalance in strength in the muscles in your legs. I'd talk to a fitness trainer and maybe try some strength training in your legs.

[Longwow]

I do stretch but I guess I will try to do more....ugh

[sensation]

I sware I want to grab my shins and rip them up.....I didnt run for nearly 2 months to get them to stop yet I keep getting them after 1 week of running EVERYTIME. I have new shoes, run on grass, and stay on flat surfaces yet still get them.

[xpllmr]

I have the same problem with my right leg. I stretch and everything and to no avail.

[Lenkapuppia]

Yep me too... they got so bad doing PT and PRT that I ended up with stress fractures..

the only thing that I have found that helps even minutely is stretching.. walking on your tip toes, and then reversing to the heel, and then back and forth like that 3-4 times each helps me out some,, but as for really really running or anything like that without ending up with the swelled up nots all down the front of my shin... well, haven't found a definite fix yet..

also, find a ledge,, like a curb, that you can hook your heel around, and dangle you toe,, and then, hook your toe and press down the heel,, that seems to help too.

[Verger99]

Perhaps you have the wrong type of shoes? There are different types of running shoes depending on how your foot lands. The wrong shoe can cause all sorts of problems.

Medium arches: Neutral shoe
High arches: Cushioned shoe because your foot tends to roll out. This causes more impact in the heel of the foot.
Low arches: Stability shoe because your foot tends to roll in (pronation). This may cause shin and knee problems. This is also the most common type.

Also, how long have you been running and how far do you run? If you're doing too much too fast, you'll have problems. If you're a beginner, you may want to start with a run/walk program to get your legs and feet used to the impact.

Oh, and log your miles in the Nova Scotia Challenge!

[adverwork]

Try brisk walking until you weigh less. That might help and keep you active. Do a walk/run regimen, and slowly build up your running. If you feel the shin splints then cut back on the running until they go away. Work your way forward without punishing yourself.

The "no pain/no gain" concept only works when we are very young and doing something we will be sorry for later anyway. For now, be careful and make your way slowly to your reasonable limits.

Good Luck!