Runners, other athletes as well as fitness enthusiasts get it. It is very common in active people. The pain in the front of the lower leg known as shin splints. What a bummer to have. An excuse to stop working out for some- but I’m not gonna let it stop you.

Some causes

Exercising on concrete or uneven ground

Working out in shoes that don’t fit properly

Here’s exactly what it is and how to manage it.

To prevent or reduce shin splints you’ve got to know your foot type so that you can purchase the right athletic shoes. Foot types are flat foot, high arch, or neutral foot. How do you know your foot type you ask? Check out your foot prints. The deeper the indent- the higher the arch in the foot. Also, check with a fitness or medical professional. If you have shin splints, no matter what foot type you have, the pain worsens during and after exercise. Take care of you leg and get a good shoe.

Neutral Foot and Shin Splints

Not prone to shin splints

Flat Foot and Shin Splints

Here the arch collases under pressure

The muscle’s starts to detach from the tibia (bone) because of excessive forces

Will feel pain on the lower inside of leg

High Arch and Shin Splints

Not good at absorbing shock

The pain here is tender when touched

Will see swelling

Forces here are transfered up the leg

Bone is prone to hairline fractures

Shoes for Flat Foot

Look for something with a sturdy heel cup. You will want to keep the heels stabile above the sole

You will also want rigid soles from toes to heel

Flexible toes

Shoes for High Arch

You will definately need shock absorption

Something cushiony that you can jump up and down in

Flexible toes

Natasha Linton

www.twitter.com/natashalinton

www.natashalinton.com

www.myspace.com/natashalinton