Shin Splints

Can anyone tell me a success story in overcoming bad shin splints. Just when I was finally getting in shape (I was trying to train for a half marathon), I was sidelined by crippling shin splints. I've finally resigned myself to stopping running altogether for a while, and I'll try to stay in shape with the elliptical trainer, and a bike. Once I try to get back into it, if I run very short distances, and try to build up very gradually, should it get better?

Sorry, Garvin, I didn't answer your question, because I had no idea when it was written. Anyway, from my experience, and what I have read, what you are experiencing in the calf is not shin splints. The pain I have is in the front bone of the shin, all the way from the ankle, up to the mid shin, on both sides of the shin bone. Feels like my muscles are full of razor blades, and my legs are going to buckle when I'm running, even on a soft surface. The pain is quite intense. By the way, my question was written on 03-31-2007, in case anyone wants to respond. I should also mention I'm 5'8" and 200 lbs. Some decent muscle, but pretty fat too. I'm sure that doesn't help with the shins. Oh, also, I have purchased good anti-pronation type of shoes, the Asics stability shoes, so I don't think shoes are the issue. I have worked on trying not to be such a heel striker also, and have tried to change my stride to land mid foot as much as possible. I avoid concrete.

Mapett can you give me an address, phone number and website for the shoe store where you purchased the anti-pronating shoes? I need to purchase a pair for my son. Thanks.

You can get them at any good running shoe store, just explain that your son is an over-pronator. I am in Colorado, and went to Boulder Running Company in Boulder. There is also one in Denver. Asics Foundation VI (I think that is what I bought).

Hello... I know this is a really late reply but I too suffer from shin splints and the pain is very much unbearable.. i too was due to run a half marathon (which is happening this weekend!) and I had to opt out... the pain has just not gone and I have had it for about 5/6 months now.. I did go to see my doctor abt it and she recommended strengthenin exercises such as placing the tip of your toes on to an edge (steps are usually best) and pushin yourself upwards to strengthen your calf... you need to strengthen your legs before running... and furthermore my PT told me if you run with your trainers lightly laced (I used to tie my laces very tight) it helps with blood circulation which in course helps with the shins... this has helped... im tryin to get myself back in to it.. its very hard as I enjoy running but cant run too much as I feel the pain within minutes! - Anyone got any advice on how to get rid of shin splints??