shins are killing me

Question
hi larry.

here lately while jogging the sides of my shins (the sides facing each leg) have been killing me, this never used to happen (of course i jog more frequently now) and i'm not sure whats causing it or how to stop it. i thought maybe shoes (dr.shoals gellin) so i got some nikes.

the doctor told me to do calf and achilles stretches but it doesn't seem to target the area. furthermore i was wondering how to improve my breathing technique, because i am certain my current method is horrible.

thanks for your time larry.

Answer
richard,

It sounds like you have a type of shin splits known as medial tibial stress syndrome.  Most common causes of this are a sudden increase in running, running on hard surfaces, and overpronation.  You should ensure that those Nike's are OK for your foot type to limit pronation.  Try to run on soft surfaces when possible.  I would also back off of running just a little for a week or so until this injury subsides.  Icing several times a day over the affected, in combination with reducing training a little, is the most effective treatment.  Continuing to run through this could result in tibial stress fracture.  

Not sure how to address your breathing technique question without a little more information.

Good luck, Larry