Running

I have fallen in love with running. I started running last year but was horrible at it. I have had horrible shin splints since cheerleading in high school. I would run for a few minutes then have to stop because of my shins. Not fun! I set a goal in the beginning to run non stop for 20 minutes. I never thought that could happen but I thought it was something I could work towards. I started out by doing intervals. Running 1 minutes and walking for 1 1/2 minutes. After awhile, I would run 3 minutes and walk 1 minute. I kept doing this for months and it really did help my shins. Over the winter I stopped running. I stuck with the elliptical or stair stepper. This spring I decided to give it a try again. I did my intervals on the treadmill and after a few days I decided to see how long I could run. I pushed myself but I made it 20 minutes! I was so proud of myself! I kept doing it and even made it 30 minutes. Now that it is nice out I have started running again outside. The only problem with that is it is easier for my shin splints to come back because of the uneven pavement.

WebMD:

What Do Shin Splints Feel Like?

Shin splints cause dull, aching pain in the front of the lower leg. Some people feel it only during exercise; others, when they've stopped exercising. Sometimes, the pain is constant.

Depending on the exact cause, the pain may be located along either side of the shinbone or in the muscles. The area may be painful to the touch. Swollen muscles can sometimes irritate the nerves in the feet, causing them to feel weak or numb.

To diagnose shin splints, your doctor will give you a thorough physical exam. He or she may want to see you run to look for problems. You may also need X-rays or bone scans to look for fractures. Other tests are sometimes necessary.

What's the Treatment for Shin Splints?

Although shin splints may be caused by different problems, treatment is usually the same: Rest your body so the underlying issue heals. Here are some other things to try:

• Icing the shin to reduce pain and swelling. Do it for 20-30 minutes every three to four hours for two to three days, or until the pain is gone.
• Anti-inflammatory painkillers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen, naproxen, or aspirin, will help with pain and swelling. However, these drugs can have side effects, like an increased risk of bleeding and ulcers. They should be used only occasionally unless your doctor specifically says otherwise.
• Arch supports for your shoes. These orthotics -- which can be custom-made or bought off the shelf -- may help with flat feet.
• Range of motion exercises, if your doctor recommends them.
• Neoprene sleeve to support and warm the leg.
• Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in your shins.

In rare cases, surgery is needed for severe stress fractures and other problems that can cause shin splints.

My goal is to do a 5K this summer and hopefully a half marathon not too long after. I am going to continue to train and build the muscles in my legs. I will keep updating on my progress!