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OutdoorTrail Running

How runners can fix shin splints – home remedy exercises and prevention routines

  • Shin splints plague many a runner but there are some simple solutions to improving and preventing the dreaded overuse injury

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Shin splints can keep runners off their feet for weeks, but there are cures and prevention routines for you to do at home. Photo: Dreamstime/TNS
Mark Agnew

Shin splints can be agony for runners. The tenderness along the inside of the shinbone gets the mind wondering, ‘What on earth can be causing this level of pain?’ Fortunately, there are some things you can do at home to help alleviate the issue and prevent it happening again in the future.

Rest

Shin splints are overuse injuries. They are particularly common in newcomers to the sport, who quickly become addicted to the improvements and push too much too soon. So, take a break from running or ease off, then build back up slowly when the injury has healed.

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Try other training as you rest – cycling, swimming, rowing. Even when the shins have healed, include other exercises in your routine to spare your legs the load but continue to improve.

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