The Risk of Shin Splints and Stress Fractures

Shin splints are a common source of pain for newer runners, and misconceptions abound when it comes to managing them. Learn how to prevent and treat shin splints and keep them from developing into a more serious injury.

Duane Scotti is a physical therapist, a Board-Certified Orthopaedic Clinical Specialist, a certified running coach, and the host of the Healthy Runner Podcast.

After years in the gym, Duane developed a love for running and founded Spark Healthy Runner, a coaching-focused group devoted to helping runners love the sport and run injury free. Duane recognizes the major impact that training decisions have on injury, and uses his combined coaching and physical therapy skills to get the most from his runners.

Since there are many misconceptions about shin splints, Duane and I start with the basics and discuss everything you need to know to make shin splints a thing of the past, including:

• What actually causes the pain of shin splints
• The difference between shin splints and other lower leg injuries, including compartment syndrome, posterior tibial tendinopathy, and more
• The primary causes of shin splints
• Why untreated shin splints can put you at greater risk for a stress fracture
• Prevention and treatment strategies, including PEACE & LOVE
• The role of strength work and cross-training to address shin splints

You can also learn more about preventing injuries here.

Duane's knowledge combined with his enthusiasm for the sport make for a dynamic discussion with lots of practical advice.  Enjoy!

Links & Resources from the Show:

• Learn more about Duane and Spark Healthy Runner
• Follow Duane on Facebook and Instagram
• Watch Health Spark Runner videos on YouTube
• Listen to my previous episode about hamstring health with Duane
• Check out my free injury prevention course

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A big thanks to Elemental Labs for their support of this episode! They make electrolyte drinks for athletes and low-carb folks with no sugar, artificial ingredients, or colors. And you can get a free sampler pack of 4 flavors and 8 individual packets when you pay $5 in shipping.

Elemental Labs' products have some of the highest sodium concentrations that you can find. Anybody who runs a lot knows that sodium, as well as other electrolytes like magnesium and potassium, are essential to our performance and how we feel throughout the day.

The citrus flavor has quickly become my favorite. I’m drinking one a day now to help me get enough fluids in our dry Colorado air. It’s tasty and delicious and I find that I’m not peeing every 45 minutes throughout the day, which might be an indication I wasn’t eating enough sodium.

There’s now mounting evidence that higher sodium intake levels are not unhealthy – and athletes need substantially more than your typical sedentary person. Of course, ask your doctor if you’re worried. But for those athletes running outside in the heat, an electrolyte replacement makes a lot of sense. So check out Elemental Labs to try their new flavor or get a free sampler pack.