I got these really bad when I first started running. I had to take time off to let them heal, then do LOTS of stretching before and after running. Definitely check you gait, I found that when I changed a bit it helped. I try to run like my legs are hinges at the hip and the whole leg follows, whereas I used to run where I would almost like kick out my lower leg, so the hinge was more at my knee. Wow does that even make sense? Sorry it's hard to explain!

I have been getting shin splints the past few days, I am getting them from walking though.

Another way to strength the area is using a thera-band - the flat ones and not the tube, even though you could probably use them too. Loop and tie it around something that will not move. Put one foot in the loop and pull your foot towards you. Do one set, then switch feet. Do a few reps (2 to 3 sets) of that every day or every other day and it helps.

The toe raises really helped me. I usually do about 25-50 reps on either leg every day or every other day, and I haven't been getting shin splints anymore. And this was after having to stop running for almost two weeks because of them, so they're definitely worth a try. You could also try a good shock-absorbing insole from a reputable shoe store.

I get bad shin splints due to pronation (flat-footedness).

As a former dancer I suggest:
Facing up a stairway, stand on a step so that the ball of your foot is near the edge and your heels hang off. Lower your heels so that your foot is flexed, pause, and then raise them so that you're standing on the balls of your feet (demi pointe). Slowly and firmly repeat this until you start feeling a little shaky (and make sure you're holding on to the railing!).

Gyms sometimes have weight machines in which you use this movement to push up weights with your shoulders, but I think that effects your calf muscle more than your arches. Just do this on an aerobics step in front of the TV or on escalators when you're out shopping and you'll feel it in no time.

i've found that i've had to alter my routine a bit since my calves were becoming more musclular like you said above and there was an imbalance. there's nothing worse than trying to workout and being in that kind of pain. i think that it's good to know that they aren't MAJOR injuries and that shin splints can be overcome just by taking a few precautions in your workout.

Hey guys,
I was the one asking Fit for help, and all the suggestions are super helpful. Thanks for the comments everyone, I can't wait to start running again!

I also had terrible shin splints because of pronation.

Even though your shoes may be newer, maybe they aren't supportive enough for you. This was a major contributer to my shin pain. When I first started running, I was wearing old crosstrainers and I never had any shin problems. Then I got some new running shoes and my shins got mangled. I now have a pair of running shoes that are supportive on the heel and arch - what a HUGE difference that made.

Good luck. I hope you make a speedy recovery.

I just realised I put the description to the one exercise I mention a little wrong. It is like the wall toe raise exercise mention in the story, just done sitting and with a band.

I got shin splints REALLY badly from tap classes - I still have a dip in my shin from them which I can poke my little finger in (gross huh?) - I needed super-supportive trainers so I could still play hockey. When I started running I made sure my trainers were thick-soled and so far, it's been fine - this time it's my knees!

I'm a dancer and I've been suffering from shin spints too. I've been doing all the exercises that are suggested for runners and some that my dance teachers suggest as well as icing them, but I wonder if there is something different about shin splints in runners and dancers.
I do modern dance so I'm generally barefoot and I can't change the amount of support, but I wonder if it's pronation, or landing badly from jumps, or something else.