How to Get Rid of Shin Splints? 5+ Effective Ways for Relief

Shin splints can be a real pain—literally. This common overuse injury often affects runners, military recruits, dancers, and athletes who engage in high-impact sports like tennis. Characterized by pain along the front of the leg, shin splints can sideline even the most dedicated fitness enthusiasts. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to treat and prevent shin splints, ensuring you can stay active without discomfort.

So, let’s delve into how to get rid of shin splits and reclaim your stride!

Understanding Shin Splints

Freepik | pressfoto | Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, are pains along the shinbone (tibia).

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to the pain that occurs along the shinbone (tibia). This condition is typically caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone. Common activities leading to shin splints include running, jumping, and other high-impact exercises performed without adequate stretching or rest.

Common Causes of Shin Splints

• Overuse: Engaging in high-impact activities like running, especially on hard surfaces.
• Sudden Increase in Activity: Rapidly increasing the intensity, duration, or frequency of workouts.
• Improper Footwear: Wearing shoes that lack proper support or are worn out.
• Flat Feet or High Arches: These foot conditions can affect how your legs absorb shock.

RICE Method for Immediate Relief

When shin splints strike, the RICE method is a reliable approach to manage the pain and promote healing.

1. Rest: Give your legs a break from high-impact activities. Opt for low-impact exercises like swimming or cycling until the pain subsides.
2. Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes, several times a day. Always wrap the ice in a towel to protect your skin.
3. Compression: Use a calf compression sleeve to help reduce swelling and provide support.
4. Elevation: Elevate your legs to decrease swelling. Prop them up on pillows or a chair while you’re icing.

How to Get Rid of Shin Splints? Try these 5 Stretches

Freepik | Use a foam roller under your shins, rolling up and down to massage the muscles.

Incorporating regular stretching into your routine can help alleviate pain and prevent shin splints from returning. Here are five essential stretches:

1. Seated Shin Stretch

• How to Do It: Kneel down and sit back on your heels. Lean back slightly, using your hands on the floor for support, and gently press down on your heels.
• Benefits: This stretch targets the muscles at the back of the lower leg, alleviating tension in the shins.

2. Soleus Muscle Stretch

• How to Do It: Stand facing a wall, place both hands on the wall, and step one foot slightly back. Bend both knees slowly to feel the stretch in your lower calf.
• Benefits: This stretch focuses on the deeper calf muscle, helping to relieve shin splint pain.

3. Gastrocnemius Muscle Stretch

• How to Do It: Place your hands on a wall, step one foot back, and keep the leg straight with both feet flat. Lean forward to stretch the upper calf.
• Benefits: Stretching the larger calf muscle can reduce shin splint discomfort.

4. Calf Raises

• How to Do It: Stand on a step with your heels hanging off. Raise up onto your toes, then lower your heels below the step level.
• Benefits: Strengthens the calf muscles, which can help in managing shin splint pain.

5. Foam Rolling

• How to Do It: Use a foam roller under your shins, rolling up and down to massage the muscles.
• Benefits: Foam rolling reduces inflammation and muscle tightness.

Should You Use Pain Relievers? Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen (Aleve), or acetaminophen (Tylenol) can help manage shin splint pain. However, they should not replace proper treatment methods like stretching, RICE, and appropriate rest.

Preventing Shin Splints

Freepik | Drazen Zigic | Make sure your shoes offer enough support and cushioning for your activity.

While treating shin splints is essential, preventing their recurrence is equally crucial. Follow these preventive measures to safeguard against future bouts of discomfort:

• Invest in Proper Footwear: Ensure your shoes provide adequate support and cushioning for your chosen activity.
• Gradually Increase Activity: Avoid sudden spikes in activity level, and gradually build up intensity to allow your body to adapt.
• Cross Train: Incorporate a variety of exercises into your routine to prevent overuse injuries.
• Replace Shoes Regularly: Don’t overlook the importance of replacing worn-out footwear to maintain proper support and cushioning.

By implementing these strategies, you can minimize your risk of developing shin splints and enjoy a pain-free, active lifestyle.

Conquer Shin Splints and Reclaim Your Active Life

Knowing how to get rid of shin splints is key to staying active and pain-free. By following the RICE protocol (rest, ice, compression, elevation), incorporating regular stretching, and choosing the right footwear, you can effectively manage shin splints and prevent them from coming back. Gradual training and cross-training are also important strategies.

If your pain persists, consult a healthcare professional to rule out more serious injuries. With these steps, you can overcome shin splints and get back to enjoying your favorite activities.