Looks like i get the duty of correcting myself here =P. Heres an explanation of the shin splint condition from webmd.com followed by an exchange between a physician and patient suffering from shin pain. Hopefully you'll find something helpfull in there.
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Shin pain
One of the most common exercise injuries, shin splints are the result of pounding on too hard a surface for too long, especially when your legs aren't properly conditioned. Dancers, tennis players, runners, even race walkers, who change their routine or get back into the exercise game after a long break are most susceptible.
When you perform a weight-bearing exercise, your leg muscles swell slightly and press against the bones in your lower leg. Too much exercise causes these muscles (as well as the surrounding ligaments, tendons, and bones) to become irritated and inflamed.
When that happens, you have shin splints; when you really overdo it, you risk going beyond shin splints to a stress fracture. Fortunately, shin splints aren't serious and almost never require medical attention. The best course of action is to take it easy for two or three weeks to allow your muscles to heal and to try home treatment.
Symptoms/Signs:
Dull ache (at rest) or shooting pain (when bearing weight) on the shin, the long bone that runs along the front of the leg from knee to ankle
Consult Your Doctor If:
Home treatment does not relieve shin splints within three weeks.
You have a small area (about the size of a nickel) of stabbing pain on a bony area of your lower leg.
Home Care Ideas:
Rest your legs by avoiding moderate- or high-impact activity for two to three weeks after onset of pain.
After the pain of shin splints has subsided, resume regular exercise and activity slowly and at a reduced intensity. Never exercise "through the pain." Choose non-impact activities such as bicycling or swimming until pain is completely gone.
Apply ice to affected areas for first 24 to 48 hours to reduce swelling and inflammation.
Apply warm compresses or minimal heat to affected areas to reduce discomfort and speed healing.
Aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen may help to reduce pain and inflammation. Use as directed.
For comfort and support, use a flexible brace or wrap only during and shortly after periods of activity.
Wear well-fitting shoes with good arch support. Replace worn shoes.
Avoid exercising on hard surfaces, such as asphalt or concrete.
Stretch all muscle groups daily.
Warm up before and cool down after each workout.
Get into shape gradually.
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Heres a link to the discussion i mentioned.
http://boards.webmd.com/roundtable_message/2001204
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