How to get rid of shin splints?

Question

I am getting ready to go to Marine Corps Boot Camp and I have pretty bad shin splints. I need to know how to get rid of them by, well, alittle over a month. I have been running for about a year trying to get my cardio up so i can be prepared for Boot Camp but they havnt started bothering me until this last month. It may be because i upped my mileage from 3 miles to 6 so quickly but i dont know. Any and all help would be appreciated.

Answer 1

Try toes on a step, with heels off of the step, lift yourself up and down as many reps as you want. what you are doing is strengthening and isolating this specific muscle group hope it helps. It worked for me, give it a try.  

Answer 2

Any kind of anti inflamitory.... In the Marines get used to using naprosyn and Motrin ...

Answer 3

Muscle strengthening as mentioned before is important. You need also to look at what the cause of the 'shin splints' are. Is it just overuse? And underconditioning? Is it a biomechanical problem? Increased pronation (rolling in of ankles) and arch flattening is commonly the cause of shin splints as the muscles in your legs are working overtime to control this. If this is the case then foot orthotics are a very effective means of treatment, and something that can be started straight away.  Also look at your footwear, make sure you have them fitted properly.

I would recommend to see a podiatrist or physiotherapist.

Answer 4

Try cross-training to reduce concussion on your legs. Swimming is good. Use compressive socks to help improve healing & reduce pain. They're great for preventing injury during training. C a sports physio who can also give u warm up exercises.