Shin splints is a huge problem for a LOT of runners.
It’s described as pain down the front of the shin and can happen to both new and experienced runners. It’s commonly associated with a lack of ankle movement, which is linked to tight calves.
This article explains a few ways that runners can both avoid and treat the problem.
In the main, I do agree with the points raised in the article, but there’s few things you need to know that’ll help you get past your shin splints problems much quicker:
1. Ice won’t help
When muscles are too tight, it’s rarely helpful to put them in a cold environment. The cold makes the muscles tighten up even more which further restricts much needed blood flow to provide nutrients for healing. Ice is usually recommended when there is inflammation present, but inflammation is your body’s response to a problem. If we remove the problem, the inflammation goes away by itself – when your body is ready for that to happen, NOT when we want it to happen.
2. The calf doesn’t need stretching
In over ten years of treating injuries and changing movement patterns, I have yet to come across a calf that needs stretching. The calves do indeed get too tight, and they do restrict ankle function BUT it’s not because they’re too SHORT. A twist in the knee joint or a forward tilt of the pelvis are the two main causes of tight calves – and in both these cases, the calves are pulled LONG. This means that stretching them won’t actually help because they’re already being stretched to the end of their capabilities.
3. Proper run technique comes down to good mobility
Every singe run technique issue you can think of can be explained by restrictions in mobility. Rather than having to “learn” good run technique like the article suggests, I’d recommend that you improve the movement in your body so that it’s easier for your body to run properly.
A great place to start is the foot and ankle. Here’s 5 FREE Foot and Ankle Mobility Videos for you to follow to get you started ditching your nagging pain and improving your run technique!