Shin splints are one of the most common running injuries. For those who jog, race competitively or participate in any sport that requires running, you've likely had shin splints at some point in your training. Shin splints are preventable, but if you do get them, they are easy to treat.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a group of fat-soluble compounds that occur naturally in foods, or as a dietary supplement, according to the Office of Dietary Supplements. These compounds contain antioxidants and help protect cells from free radicals, which are potentially damaging. Vitamin E is found in many foods, including sunflower seeds, almonds, spinach, hazelnuts and broccoli. Supplements or daily vitamins often contain concentrated amounts of vitamin E.
Shin Splints
Shin splints are one of the most common running injuries. According to MayoClinic.com, shin splints occur when your tibia and the muscles and tendons attached to it are excessively stressed. Speed work, running on hard surfaces, ill-fitting running shoes and running downhill can all contribute to the development of shin splints. Common symptoms of shin splints may include pain on the inside or middle of your shin, pain that is worst at the beginning of your run or in the morning, and mild swelling after your run.
Remedies
Because shin splints are the result of stress on your tendons, muscles and bones, the regenerative properties vitamin E provides may contribute to relief from shin splints. Free radicals can cause muscle soreness and inflammation at the cellular level. Increasing your intake of vitamin E may help you combat the free radicals and reduce the pain associated with shin splints.
Considerations
Vitamin E is not a cure for shin splints. Do not significantly increase your daily intake of vitamin E without consulting a health care professional. If you are experiencing symptoms of shin splints, reduce or eliminate activities that cause pain and talk to your doctor about treatment options.
