Health Tip: Avoiding Shin Splints

(HealthDay News) -- Shin splints are fairly common among athletes and people engaging in other forms of strenuous exercise. The injury is characterized by pain and soreness running down the large bone in the lower leg.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons offers this list of common risk factors for shin splints:

• Having foot abnormalities, such as flat feet or rigid arches.
• Jogging or running for exercise.
• Dancing strenuously.
• Training for the military.
• Suddenly increasing exercise, including intensity and duration.