Why do my knees/shins/calves kill when I start running?

Question

I'm not sure what it is. I've been running since July, and everyday. On the first impact of running, my knees kill! Its like if the bone is hitting bone. And my shins kill (probably shin splints) and my calves also kill. I already got new shoes that have more support, they're asics, and they are extremely comfortable.

Am I just over-doing it? I've tried resting for a few days, but that doesn't help. I even had to get a knee support bandage for my left knee because it gets so bad. btw I'm 16.

Answer 1

u need to strech better

Answer 2

Hi,

Sounds like one of two things (hopefully not both together but that's also a possibility).  You don't mention if the pain gets worse or goes away when you run. That will be important information if/when you decide to see a doc:

1- Shin splints: these can be very painful, with "transfer pains" to other parts of your lower leg.  These are normally caused by improper stretching, improper technique or running on a hard surface w/out adequate cushioning.

2- Stress fractures. Given that you're running every day (not a good thing to do BTW), and on a hard surface that's a possibility.  You'll need to see your doctor and get x-rays to be sure.

Stuff you can do:

1- Rest it, ice it, compress it.  Sounds like you're doing that now

2- Even though you like your shoes-with this much pain they aren't doing much if anything to help cushioning.  Get some new ones.

3- Avoid concrete, at least until you're lower leg muscles build up.  While most of us can't just "run on grass or trails", at this time of year asphalt does have some cushioning ability.

4- Avoid highly crowned roads, trails.  The pronation of your feet might be stressing the muscles and tendons (they're working hard to keep you up as well as running).  Make sure the route's pretty flat, roadwise.

FWIW, I had a similar issue-and was running on a trail that had some slope on it.  Just by switching to the street-not sidewalk, my pain went away in days.

5-  Start a lifting program for your legs-specifically your lower legs.  The muscles and tendons might just be too weak right now for the regimen you're running.

Answer 3

running on cement is not good for your body at all.

If you can try running on the grass. I use to have the same problem, then took grass routes and im totally fine now.  

Answer 4

Ooh, you should probs check with your doctor, it's a really bad sign if someone your age is dealing with bone problems.