Still shin splints??

[lauranicx]

Hi there, i wonder if anyone could shed some light, or tips on an ongoing problem that i've been having. Since roughly january i've been suffering from what i presume is shin splints- bilateral pain on the lower inside rim on the shins. I had my gait assessed at a running shop- who states that there was no issues regarding this so i purchased a running shoe with good support and silicone heel inserts to try absorb some shock, had a 4 week rest period, went running and within 2 minutes was in agony, with the same pain. Had a 4 week rest period and returned to fitness classes as opposed to running and bought a new pair of trainers with a reputation for high shock absorbency. No problems- tried a run and the pain came back straight away. This time i attended a sports physio who states that my calf muscles were too tight and gave me a series of stretching exercises to carry out during my 6 week rest period. Done this, purchased a pair of sorbothane insoles and went back to the gym- first day 1 ran for 10 minutes- no problem, 3 days later i ran for 20 minutes- slight niggle but it passed, then yesterday immediately when i started to run i was in agony. So I've found myself a few months down the line £££s down and with a set of unsightly bumps down each leg, and the issue is nowhere nearer to being resolved. Can anyone shed some light on what i'm doing wrong? Should i just not run anymore (not too keen on that solution though) Any tips would be appreciated.
Laura

[Heidi]

Hi Laura
It does sound like shin splints and you have done the right things to rest and to look at your gait, trainers, calf muscles and massage. But obviously there is something you have missed. I would suggest an entire gait analysis, pelvis dowards. A common problem in women is having weak hip abductor muscles as this causes the knee to fall inwards and the shin to rotate.
Continue to stretch the calf muscles as this has obviously had some benefit.
Have you tried taping your shin or wearing a calf support? You can find a taping technique in our strapping and taping section

[lauranicx]

i actually had issues with my hip abductor muscle a few years ago- only discovered after i had surgery to the opposite ankle for damage done while overcompensating! So it could all be related? Iv not tried taping but il have a look at the online tutorial- will this help ease the pain? Thanks for all your help.
Laura