I'm putting this out there so all of you can hold me to it. I am signing up to run a 10k. Its not until July, so I've got awhile to train. (thank goodness!) So far I have only done 3 training runs, but plan to make it 4 today. I am not a runner by any stretch of the imagination. I'm just trying to get myself to the point where I can run for a 30 minute stretch, then I'll start building up to being able to run the 10K.
I'm having a problem with my shins. I got shin splints all the time as a child, but haven't had them for years. But lately, when I run, from the very first time my foot hits the ground I get a shooting pain that goes up my shin bone. I'm wondering if I just need new shoes. I bought some nice running shoes about 2.5 years ago - but honestly, they don't have much mileage on them. Of course, I have no idea how many miles a pair of shoes should last. Can any of you runners out there give me some advice? I really don't want to have to invest $120 in a new pair of shoes, but if I'm going to do this, I might as well bite the bullet and do it right.
7 comments:
Michelle, you should go to a running store that can analyze your form. There are a lot of places that do it. They will have you run on a treadmill for a minute, sometimes film it, etc..
Everyone has different form. Sometimes, a runner's form can make them more prone to injury. For example, I pronate (which means that the outside of my heel strikes first, with each step), making me more susceptible to certain types of injury if I'm wearing a neutral shoe. As a result, I wear a shoe that is designed for people who pronate.
So, it is likely that after having your stride/gait observed by a pro, that they will have a suggestion for a type of shoe. PS, you can get good running shoes online for pretty reasonable prices, once you find out what kind you need.
If you are still having pain, you may want to see an orthopedic dr. Sometimes you need to do some strength training on certain muscles, before you can safely do distance running. An orthopedic doctor could make that determination.
Whatever you do, don't ignore it, because full blown shin splints can be a serious (and seriously painful) injury. [sorry for the longest comment, EVER]
I'm not a real runner, but I've been training for a half marathon for awhile. My doctor told me that if you run seriously you should get new shoes every 3 months (YIKES!), but she also said to make sure you stretch out your calves and keep them warm when you're running. My shoes were brand new when I was getting shin splits (they are 2 1/2 years old now, too), but when I switched to wearing long thick socks it helped a ton and I haven't had a problem since.
Jake - I bought my current shoes at the Salt Lake Running Co - where they did analyze my stride and helped me select a shoe. But, like I said, those shoes are kinda old. I guess I'll go again and see what they tell me.
Thanks for the longest comment ever! I was hoping you would respond, since you're a pro and all.
Hey! So I am one of your blog stalkers. I love your blog! I think that is sweet that you are going to do a marathon! I get winded just running out to get my mail.
^---Not a pro. But, I'm glad to know that the long comment wasn't annoying. Hehe
Are you going to do the Deseret News 10K in July? I think I'll do it too. My 83 year old father in law usually does it, so I should probably suck it up and join him.
Happy running! I get my shoes at Wasatch Running. Time for new ones for me.
I would replace them every 300 miles or so. (thats every few months if you are Running 25-50) miles a week, I suppose)
Ive done the deseret news 10k. Its a lot of fun.
I am jealous because I am SO OUT OF SHAPE and so pregnant. Yah for you. You're awesome.
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