Shin Splints, How Can You Avoid This?

12 Sep Shin Splints, How Can You Avoid This?

Athletes of all kinds are prone to lower leg pain known as shin splints. Shin splints often occur when people do too much too soon. For example, a runner could get a shin splint when they abruptly switch up their workout routine or increase the mileage they run without building it up gradually. Shin splints can be very painful, but they are able to be avoided in many different ways. If you’ve developed this condition or need more information on how to avoid shin splints, visiting a Valley Stream Orthopedist could be the right choice for you! 

Here are some of the most common symptoms of shin splints:

• Tenderness/soreness on the inner side of the shinbone. 
• Mild swelling in the lower leg.
• Pain/inflammation. 

In the beginning, the pain might stop when you are not exercising, however, the pain can continue and form into a stress fracture in the future. Visiting a Valley Stream orthopedist is important in order to make sure that your shin splints get treated and do not progress into something worse.

Although shin splints are very common, there are several at-home methods for helping to avoid them, such as the following:

• Do not suddenly increase your running mileage: It is important to gradually increase your mileage and intensity so that you do not overuse your shins. Allow yourself adequate time to recover from a run in order to give your legs a break. 
• If possible, run on a softer surface: Running on surfaces like concrete can create stress on your joints/muscles. Try running on turf, grass fields, or a track if outside. 
• Obtain quality running shoes: It is important that your running shoes have stability and cushioning. If you do not want to get another pair of new running shoes, you can also try over-the-counter shoe inserts.
• Stretch your calves: Make sure you are stretching your calves after a workout. If they are tight, try a foam roller or massage tools to help. 

If you are experiencing shin splints, visit our Valley Stream orthopedist to get the correct treatment for you!  

Scheduling a visit with our Valley Stream Orthopedist at Advanced Orthopedics and Joint Preservation is a great way to get the care you need for the unbearable pain that can come with shin splints. Here, our experienced and professional staff is dedicated to providing the most efficient and effective treatment outcomes for all patients. They are qualified in sports performance and strength training, which are great ways to help diminish and prevent shin splints from resurfacing. 

Contact our Valley Stream orthopedist today to learn more about how to take care of your body and avoid complications from shin splints.