Shin Pain when Running on Treadmill


(Lancashire)

I am a 30 year old lady who is rather unfit and overweight 14 stone 10 pounds and I want to lose weight and get fit by running.

Unfortunately I get shin splints, pain going down the outside of my shin from just below the knee down.



I warm up correctly and don't have the problem if I use the cross-trainer so I think it is simply my weight that is causing the problem.

So my question is should I abandon all hope of running until my weight is lower or is there anything I can do to stop the pain and continue to run?


Answer by Dominique:


Hi there,
Thanks for your question about running when overweight and running with shin splints.

Running with an injury is never a good idea. Apart from tiredness and some muscle pains/muscle stifness your running should be a quite enjoyable experience. It is clear that under the current circumstances, your running is not exactly helping you.

When you have an injury it is better not to run. Try any type of cross-training to stay or get fit in the mean time.

One thing that is not exactly clear is whether you'd be able to do anything about this issue with a change of shoes or even a change of running technique and/or pace. I am not convinced that it is just your weight that is causing the shin splints.

If you don't have the problem when walking, then I would advise to consider a run/walk program in which the running is only just a bit faster than walking, i.e. a very gentle jog.



In addition to that try to find a park or other grassy area where you can run on softer surfaces and see if that makes a difference.

Running is a great way to lose weight, so I would also suggest going to a specialized running shoe store. Explain your issue and see if they can help with providing a pair of shoes that is right for you. The right pair of running shoes can do wonders to your running experience.

Good luck with your weight loss journey. I hope you'll be able to incorporate running into your life.

Best of luck.
Kind regards,
Dominique

Join in and write your own page! It's easy to do. How? Simply click here to return to Running Injury Helpline.



Like this page:


Share this page:


Like this site:


[?] Subscribe To This Site

XML RSS
follow us in feedly
Add to My Yahoo!

Helpful
Resources

  • Beginner Running Tips

    Are you a beginning runner? Then this is your best starting point. Many tips and running programs on offer, dedicated to you.

  • Running for Weight Loss

    Aiming to lose a few pounds? Get into the Running for Weight Loss section for tips and advice.

  • Running Training

    The Running Training section of the site has got the most articles. It is constantly getting updated with new tips and information. A must-visit if you are serious about improving your running performance.

  • 5k Running Tips

    The 5k is a great distance to run and train for. The great thing is that you can do it quite often and see big improvements.

  • 10k Running Tips

    The 10k is a real challenge. You need to run fast for an uncomfortably long time! Check out this section if you are strong of mind and legs!

  • Marathon Running Tips

    The marathon is a massive challenge. Proper training is so important! Make sure to check out this section if you have got your mind set on the marathon!




What's New?

  1. Guide on How to Treat Black Toenail | Best Running Tips

    Discover effective and easy ways to treat black toenail. Understand causes, symptoms, prevention methods. Visit best-running-tips.com now to learn more.

    Read more

  2. Pain in Heel When Running - Common Causes, Treatment and Prevention Strategies

    Have you got some pain in your heel when running? Check out this page to learn about common causes, what to do about your heel pain and when to visit the doctor.

    Read more

  3. Common Running Injuries: Causes and Treatments

    running tips 07
    In this section of Best Running Tips I will tell you about the most common running injuries. Learn about them so you know how to prevent them !

    Read more

  4. Foot and Ankle Strengthening Exercises

    This short article provides a list of foot and ankle strengthening exercises that can improve your foot stability and prevent heel pain when running.

    Read more

  5. First Marathon for Older Runner

    I am 68 years old. I have been a runner for 33 years doing mostly 5 and 10K race with one half marathon. I usually run a 5K in 25-27 minutes and the

    Read more