How to Tape Shin Splints

Caused by damage to the tibia or shinbone, shin splints can be incredibly painful. Shin splints are most commonly caused by repeated jarring of the shinbone, and they are more likely to occur in those that don't adequately recover between workouts. Runners experience shin splints more frequently than other athletes. If you have shin splints, it's important to care for them properly to avoid additional damage. By taping them, you'll reduce stress to the area and encourage faster healing.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Sports tape Razor

1. Shave the hair on your lower legs. The tape will better adhere to smooth skin, and you'll experience less pain when you remove the tape.

2. Flex your foot. This will tighten the skin in the shin area, ensuring the tape is applied firmly.

3. Run two pieces of tape up the shin. Do this on both sides of the shinbone. The tape should go from the ankle to just below the knee.

4. Place several small pieces of tape diagonally across the first two pieces of tape. There should be no space between each piece so the entire front of your shin will be covered in tape.

5. Put two pieces of tape up the shin again. Put it over the diagonal pieces. This will help to keep the diagonal pieces in place.

6. Affix several pieces of tape horizontally across the front of your shin. This final coat of tape serves to protect the underlying tape layers and provides additional support to the shin.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your foot flexed throughout the entire taping process.
• If you do not rest your shin splints, they will not heal.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Tired of Being Tired? Fight Fatigue and Try FRS for FREE!