What are the causes and how can I prevent shin splints?
The most common causes of shin splints appearing in runners are listed below: • Repetitive stress through running on hard surfaces • Making sudden or dramatic changes to your training programme e.g. increasing the mileage or the pace • Running in inadequately cushioned running shoes • Overpronation: an exaggerated inward roll of the foot which places greater stress on the lower leg when running • Oversupination: an exaggerated outward roll of the foot which affects its ability to absorb shock naturally • Continuing to run in worn out running shoes A visit to a specialist running shoe store with a gait analysis facility will help to rule out many of the above causes of shin splints as gaining an understanding of your running style makes choosing an appropriately cushioned and supportive shoe much easier. Problems such as overpronation or oversupination, once identified, can be corrected by using orthotics prescribed by a sports podiatrist and then suitable running shoes can be chosen to
