What is shin splints?
It is a painful condition that is caused by an inflammation around the muscles near the shins. The most common variation of shin splints occurs when the muscle tears away from the front of the lower leg. This is caused by anything from tight Achilles and calf muscles to an inexperienced runner trying to do too much to running over uneven terrain. Shin splints also can be caused by running in worn down shoes or shoes that don't fit your gait.
Treatment can be arduous, but there are things runners can do to prevent shin splints and the first, and easiest step, is buying the right running shoes.
Who is likely to get shin splints?
Overpronation is the leading cause. Overpronation occurs when the foot rolls inward upon landing while running. The arch of the foot collapses and the foot isn't able to absorb as much shock as it should. The force of the foot hitting the pavement causes the shin bear the brunt of the force.
Usually, women and those with flat feet are most vulnerable to overpronation.
What to look for in running shoes
A store that specializes in running is the best place to buy shoes when you're worried about shin splints. The store can usually diagnose your pronation by videotaping you while running on a treadmill..
Some of the features required in running shoes to stop shins splints are:
• Extra heel support - This will stop excess pronation and allow the shock to be balanced throughout the base of the shoe.
• Dual-density midsole - This type of midsol has firmer material on the inside of the shoe to prevent overpronation.
• A board-lasted shoe: In some shoes, a piece of cardboard runs along the base to make the shoe less flexible. This is ideal for those with flat feet.
Best shoes for shin splints
As noted above, getting your running gait analyzed is really the best way to tell which type of running shoes will help with the specific cause, but here are a couple options that might ease the symptoms:
• Asics Gel Foundation 7 and 9 - These shoes are made for overpronator and those who like to run long distances in a stiffer shoe with tons of support. Be wary of the Asics Gel Foundation 8. It's the most flexible of the series.
• New Balance 850 - This shoe also caters to the severe overpronator. It does provide comfort and support for high-mileage runners.
• Mizuno Wave Alchemy 10 - This shoes help with severe overpronation and its stretchy upper is geared to move with the movement of your foot while you run.
• Brooks Beast - The Beats tends to be the popular choice for runners suffering from shin splints because it provides support for flat-footed and overpronated runners.
0 comments:
Post a Comment