OK walkers...I need some advice....

[December99]

I plan on talking to the doc about this on Friday when I see him but I thought this would be a good place too. I want to start walking soon but I have this problem....

Even if I stretch beforehand I get these horrible pains in my shins as I'm walking. And we aren't talking walking very far - if I start at a slow pace, if I start at a fast pace, no matter how I start I get them. I end up having to stop for a little bit, stretch my legs out by rolling my ankles to the outside and then start walking again very slowly. This can happen when I'm at WalMart, when I'm at a park with my family, anywhere. I don't know what I'm doing wrong or if there is something I can do to get rid of this pain and help me walk so I can start doing it for exercise. It also happens when I'm on a treadmill. It's near the front of my legs, sometimes travels to the backs. Then the next day it's like someone kicked me in the shins. It appears to be like people have described shin splints to me but I'm not totally sure.

 

[PAdisMOM]

Check with your doctor, but I think I had heard something once about low potassium levels causing this.

Eat more bananas.

 

[TigH]

Hmmm, that is something!

What kind of shoes are you walking in? Have you been fitted for those insert sole thingies? You might want to try buying some insoles (or whatever they are called). Check out Sports Authority or a store that specializes in selling athletic shoes. I hope you are able to find a solution so that you can walk pain-free soon!!!

Good luck! You're smart to visit the Dr. to see what this is all about!

 

[kamgen]

I noticed that my shoes make a huge difference for me...my ankles get sore and my arches ache if my shoes are not good. I got New Balance at Sears and so far so good! My Reeboks didn't work for me.

Talk to your doctor...hope it helps!

Kamy

 

[glo]

I agree with everyone....I heard that there is a vaitamin deficiney that causes this. Maybe that is it. Also starting slow and keeping an even pace on a flat surface helps. Good luck!

 

[December99]

Thanks. I had problems a few years ago with my feet and my arches and got inserts made for my dress shoes. The ortho also told me to get the shoes with the DVM and that is what I have been having to wear. They help my feet sooooooo much. I can't walk in anything else basically - as a walking shoe goes.

I had heard that one time about potassium too - unfortunately I love bananas but they don't necessarily love me.

 

[geetey]

Hi December99!
It sounds like shin splints to me. I used to get chronic shin splints. Walking on the treadmill was the most painful thing I could imagine. Same as you, it didn't matter if I walked slowly or quickly.

I saw my doctor and a physical therapist. Basically they told me that my shins were weak and the only way to get rid of the pain was to keep walking, thereby toughening and strengthening the area. In the meantime, I took Advil and wore tall knee high socks, taping my leg around the shin area. The tape provided some extra support as my shins got better and stronger. It looks rather silly so I was glad I was walking at home.

I have noticed the WATP tapes cause me NO problems whatsoever, and I think it is because we are constantly switching what we are going (kicking, knee lifts, walking, etc) so there isn't sustained pressure on the front of my shins. Finally I don't have problems walking on the treadmill either! It's taken a long time though.

I am glad you are checking with your doctor and I hope your solution is as simple! BTW, if you do want to tape your shins without too many looks, just get some simple white tube socks. Put on one pair. Tape the shin area. Put on a 2nd pair. No one will notice the tape.

 

[Beanie]

Ouch, Chris! Unfortunately I don't have any advice, but seem like you got some great advice already! I do hope it gets better for you!!