How to Treat Pain from Shin Splints
Shin splints are a temporary condition in which the muscles around the shin bones are inflamed and sore. This condition is usually caused by exertion such as running. Although shin splints are painful, treating them is easy and can be done at home.
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Instructions
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Take anti-inflammatory medication. Ibuprofen and naproxen are both excellent choices. Take the medication as indicated on the bottle. Because your muscles are inflamed, the medication will help reduce the pain from your shin splints.
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Stretch the affected muscles that are causing the shin splint pain. Sitting on the floor with your legs extended in front of you, pull your toes toward your knee. If you can't reach your toes, put a belt or strap around the balls of your feet and pull the belt toward you, pulling your toes towards your knees.
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Apply ice packs to your shins. Ice will reduce the swelling associated with shin splints. To avoid topical pain from the ice packs, use a thin towel between your legs and the ice pack.
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Lightly massage the muscles that are causing your shin splint pain.
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Apply topical muscle pain medication to your shin splints.
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Elevate your calves, to relieve the swelling associated with shin splints.
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References
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