3 Steps to Treat Shins Splints

Shin splints
Photo by Yogendra Singh on Unsplash

Shin splints are when inflammation occurs between your calf muscles and the front inside section of your shin. They are often the result of exercising too often and pushing yourself too hard. Shin splints are most often caused by running but can also be triggered by tennis, soccer, or basketball. Here is how to treat shin splints.

Ice The Area

Rubbing the affected area with ice for 20 to 30 minutes, a few times a day will help relieve the pain. You can freeze water in a disposable cup then peel off the lip of the cup, so you can use it as an ice stick.

Wear Compression Sleeves

When you eventually go back to working out again, compression sleeves can help provide some relief and even prevent shin splints in the future.

Try To Hold Off On Painkillers

Inflammation is a part of the healing process. Research shows nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin can affect and delay the natural healing process. Only use painkillers if the pain is intense. You could also use non-anti-inflammatory pain relief such as Tylenol.