How To Treat Shin Splints

If you've recently started a new exercise program, you may soon be wondering how to treat shin splints. Shin splints are characterized by an aching pain down the front of the shins. They often appear when you start exercising after a period of little activity or if you increase your exercise intensity. Shin splints are caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons which attach to the front of the tibia or shin bone. If shin splints are not treated, they can lead to stress fractures of the tibia, so it's important to understand the signs of shin splints and treat them when they occur.

Things you'll need:

• Ice or ice pack
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs

1. Rest. Rest is the first line of treatment for shin splints. Since the symptoms are caused by over-exercise, it makes sense that rest will help bring relief. Shin splints typically need about ten days to heal. During this time it can be helpful to do gentle stretching exercises to help prevent re-injury when you go back to your exercise.
2. Ice. Icing shin splints is a good way to relieve the pain. Cold helps reduce the inflammation of the tendons and muscles, leading to a reduction in pain. Apply an ice pack to the affected area two to three times a day for no more than twenty minutes at a time.
3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs like ibuprofen or acetaminophen help to reduce inflammation, reducing the discomfort caused by shin splints. Take all medications according to your doctor's directions.

Tips:

• If pain doesn't show improvement after a week, you should be seen by your doctor. You may have a stress fracture, which requires more intensive treatment.
• Cushioning insole inserts can help prevent shin splints from flaring up again.
• Always warm up and stretch before exercising to prevent re-injury.