<p>Yeah, shin splints can be pretty nasty. They’re caused by either overloading or bio-mechanical inefficiencies… such as flat-feet, poor posture, sub-par running mechanics, etc. Prevention is the first objective here, obviously. Treatment of the specific injury, related to the damage of the tendons connecting the tibia and fibula bones, is pretty straightforward. Remember R.I.C.E. It stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation. Follow this regime for a few days… and if it doesn’t get any better, see a professional. There are other methods like massaging, applying heat, etc., that might work, but the priority is to not get here in the first place.</p>
<p>The cause of shin splints is actually the force and the way your feet strike the ground… if it’s not correct, it will strain the tendons, which will tense up and pull on the the bones of your feet causing pain. Running shoes are extremely important, make sure you have the right type and fit. And have someone evaluate your running posture… make sure you don’t over pronate, or land of the balls of your feet. And running on hard surfaces like concrete is not the best thing to do either… try gravel or a rubber track.</p>
<p>Stretching is also key, flexible and warmed up muscles and tendons won’t cramp, or tense up. It will also relieve pressure from your bones and won’t cause that pain. Flexibility is always integral to maintaining a healthy, injury-free body.</p>
<p>A lot of Marines get shin splints here… we see these patients all the time. Especially since they mindlessly run in “boots and utes” which causes a lot of damage to their legs and back. Just don’t over-exert yourself.</p>
<p>BUT Anyway… I’m still stoked out of my mind for this Summer… a nice little change of pace. And to Navy1314… yeah, you’re kind of “parting ways with the real world,” I guess… don’t really know what you mean by the “real world.” Sure, the Academy experience might be a bit sheltered and in ways surreal, but the Military IS as real as the world gets. The world where people fight for other peoples’ freedoms, the world where people defend what is right… the world where people serve with honor, courage and commitment. That’s me, and that’s all of you. And I really respect that all of you guys and girls have decided to go down this road. It’s a great thing.</p>
<p>We’re all shipmates! Hahaha… see you all in a few weeks.</p>