Which products are suitable for Shin Splints?

Shin splints is a term used to describe pain on the front of the lower leg. True shin splints causes pain just on the inside of the shin bone. It is often caused by biomechanical problems with the feet, as well as overtraining. There are a number of products which you can use at home which will ease your shin splint symptoms.

The first step in treating conditions such as shin splints is to reduce the pain and inflammation. This can be achieved using cold therapy. Coldone have produced a general purpose wrap which is so easy and clean to use. The whole wrap is placed in the freezer until required, when it is then wrapped around the injured area (in this case the shin). It will stay in place for as long as you need it, meaning you don't have to sit still while you ice! The wrap is then put back in the freezer until next time. Current recommendations for icing following injury are that it should be applied for 15 minutes at a time, every 3-4 hours for the first 48-72 hours.

In order to fully treat your shin splints you need to consider their cause. In many cases, the cause is faulty foot biomechanics. Most commonly, people who develop shin splints have a very rigid foot with a high arch that is not suited to shock absorption. A simple alternative is to try some shock absorbing insoles. These are placed into the shoe and can dissipate up to 94% of shocks.

In order to continue with your daily activities you may wish to wear a shin support. The Cho Pat shin splint compression sleeve is designed specifically for shin splints. It works through compression and heat retention to control swelling and promote healing. It also has two foam straps which act as shock absorbers to help reduce the stress passed through the shin muscles with every step.

Alternatively a taping technique can be used used to take strain of the muscles. This involves using zinc oxide tape and the technique can be found on sportsinjuryclinic.net. We recommend seeking professional advice before using these techniques.

Often in individuals with shin splints, the calf muscles are also tight and this just adds to the problem. Stretching the calf muscles 3-5 times a day can really make a difference. To help you achieve this. a slant board can be very useful. They come in wooden and plastic designs and are adjustable to allow a greater degree of stretch as your flexibility improves.

Coldone general wrap

Sorbothane shock absorbing insoles

Cho Pat shin splint compression sleeve

Zinc oxide tape

Slant board