Almost anyone who runs, is at risk for developing a running related injury. Among these types of injuries, one of the most common is medial tibial stress syndrome, better known as shin splints.

With shin splints, a person experiences pain along the large bone in the front of the lower leg known as the shinbone (tibia). Generally, the pain surfaces as a result of excessive pressure on the shinbone and the connective tissues through which the muscles & bones are connected.

People most commonly affected by shin splints are runners and other athletes.

Typical signs & symptoms of shin splints include:

- Tenderness, soreness or pain along the inner part of the lower leg

- Mild swelling

At first, the pain may stop when running or exercise is stopped. However, at some point, the pain may be continuous. Often times, the pressure is caused by specific athletic activities, such as:

- Running downhill

- Running on a slanted or tilted surface

- Running in worn-out footwear

- Engaging in sports with frequent starts and stops, such as basketball and tennis

- Shin splints can also be caused by training too hard, too fast or for too long

Following the regimen outlined below can help treat & prevent shin splints safely & naturally:

Always properly warm up and cool down before and after exercising

When running, try to do so on a soft surface.

Select footwear that provides ample rearfoot cushioning.

When running on a treadmill, it is also helpful to vary the elevation on the machine.

Stretching and strengthening muscles can also help lower the risk of developing shin splints.

The best treatment involves using the RICE method: Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.

The supplements listed below may also be beneficial:

Arnica (take as directed on label) - Prevents the release of pain-causing hormones.

Vitamin A (take as directed on label) - Helps repair tissue.

Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids (3,000 - 6,000 mg daily in divided doses) - Aids healing and reduces further injury.

Bromelain (take as directed on label) - Helps prevent swelling and inflammation.

Grape Seed Extract (take as directed on label) - Powerful anti-inflammatory.

Acupuncture - Acupuncture is one treatment that is gaining popularity among  top sports players and athletes to treat musculoskeletal problems. It can be used on its own and in conjunction with other therapies.

* Important note: The recommended doses are for those over age 18. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.

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