After my last post, I had a patient talk to me about her experience of shin splints. She found that they occurred mainly after running on the treadmill at the gym. That’s most likely because it’s a repetitive movement with a basically unchanging gait and strike pattern. Another patient reported having a problem with running on the pavement but being OK with trail running. It’s a similar situation.

If you find that your running is giving you tight calves or shin splints, try (after a break) shaking it up a bit. If you use a treadmill, vary the incline of the machine regularly. Most treadmills at gyms can be inclined, so use this to alter your muscle usage. If you run outside, hit the grass or a trail to avoid that monotonous plodding. Your legs will appreciate the variation and your whole body will benefit from the use of differing muscle groups for stability.

If you’re still having problems, come in for Bowen or remedial massage or see your podiatrist or physio.

Michael Alcott – Sydney Complementary Health