Avoid Shin Splints with These 4 Vital Tips

It is really frustrating to put in work to improve your physical wellness by running, only to end up with shins that begin hurting in the middle of your workout. The pain that comes from this condition can certainly be enough to get a new runner thinking about giving up. That’s why it is helpful to know that there are ways to prevent shin splints from developing.

This injury can keep you from exercising and your favorite physical activities, so it is best to prevent it from happening in the first place. There are several steps that you can take to reduce your risk and keep you active. Some of the best tips for avoiding shin splints are to:

• Choose the right footwear. This means picking shoes that are appropriate for the sport or physical activity you perform. In addition to have the right shoes, be sure to replace them when they become worn out and stop supporting your feet and legs properly.
• Use arch supports. Arch supports can help ensure that your feet are using the most biomechanically efficient process, thereby relieving stress on the muscles and bones in your lower legs. This can be especially beneficial for those who have low foot arches.
• Cross-train. Shin splints develop due to high-impact activities. Bicycling, yoga, and swimming will help to lower force loads on the lower limbs, while still giving you a workout and enhancing your overall levels of fitness.
• Perform strength training. No need to spend hours every day pumping iron – you can benefit from simply performing calf raises and leg presses to strengthen your muscles and keep painful shins at bay.

The best injury prevention methods in the world are, unfortunately, unable to eliminate all risk of physical injury when you are active. Fortunately, if your pain persists, the injury treatment you need will typically be nonsurgical in nature and we can create an effective plan for you here at Foot & Ankle Center of Oklahoma.

For more information on how to treat and prevent shin splints and other common lower limb injuries, give our Oklahoma City foot doctor office a call at (405) 418-2676. Our friendly staff looks forward to talking with you and helping keep you safe in your favorite activities. When injury does strike, be sure to schedule an appointment with us, which you can also do online!