Re: [pct-l] Shin splints

[Stephen Martin <troubadour@pcthiker.com>]

on 4/20/00 10:02 AM, TempeMIke@aol.com at TempeMIke@aol.com wrote:

> I have never bothered with stretching before
> hiking or running and it seems difficult to work the muscles or ligaments in
> the shins with stretching anyhow.

This statement I believe is key.

On the PCT last year I developed shin splints and had to take 9 days off the
trail to recover. Through my years of hiking and running I had never once
had shin splints. While off the trail I researched the ailment and was
horrified to discover that it can sometimes take as long as 6 months to
recover from the affliction. For me stretching was the key to my quick
recovery. I'm also a heavy pronator and got some superfeet insoles to help
stabalize the inward roll of my ankles.

I found that through the rest of the hike my legs felt better and I was less
sore if I stretched in the morning and evening on the trail. Granted I
didn't do it everyday, but I could feel a distinct difference on the days
that I did. On 30+ mile days I would feel refreshed in the morning having
taking the time to stretch before going to bed. Plus, the intense pain of a
full blown case of shin splints will definitely be a motivator to not
experience it again!

You may wish to search the internet on "shin splints" to learn more about
them and prevention.


Troubadour
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