Is it potentially dangerous to run with shin splints?

Question

I run track, so I'm not in a situation where I can just stop running, but at the same time I don't want to hurt myself. I heard that running on shin splints can potentially cause a stress fracture. My coach is more of a "push through the pain" kind of guy. Any thoughts?

Answer 1

Well i always heard that you have to run through shin splints i doubt you will get hurt. take some advil or something.

Answer 2

it depends how bad it's getting.

if it gets to a point where the pain doesnt disappear while you're running at all and they are distracting or causing you to change your stride, then it is time for a little cross training.

it's not anything you can ignore. you absolutely must be icing it after running at least. and you should get them wrapped by the trainer.

stress fracture is possible but be smart and if its too painful, stop running asap.

Answer 3

if you are taking steps to treat them you can continue to run without too much trouble, but if they are at the point where they are always hurting you need to take time off.

to treat them do NOT ice them, icing and wrapping shin-splints does nothing. what you need to do is heat them up and massage your shin muscles thoroughly. there is a massage device called "the stick" that works really well.

http://www.thestick.com

doing strengthening exercises and stretches for your shin muscles helps also. lay on your bed with your toes over the edge of the mattress. pull your toes upward into the mattress to get resistance training, do many repeats of this. stretching your calves helps as well

Answer 4

i agree with the first person but ice them and wrap them. but if they get to a point where u cant run go to the doctors but usually shin splints go away in a week or two. also dont run as much if your shins are hurting u cuz that can lead to life time injuries

Answer 5

yea shin splints can def cause stress fractures... there r a lot of ppl on my track team who r out b/c of shin splints and stress fractures. i think it is mostly b/c of either their shoes or b/c they dont warm up and cool down properly... and now that u have shin splints, u should ice them after practice and on weekends... i have them 2 and it helps wen i massage them. and one of my coaches also told me 2 trace the alphabet out with each leg, sorta rolling and flexing ur ankle...