Treating Shin Splints

By Dr. Ron J. Higuera, D.C., M.S. ART
  
Performance Innovation
Q: I have been treated for shin splints, but still have pain when running. Any suggestions?

A: Shin splints were a difficult injury to treat until ART®. They are due to an over use injury of the muscles of the anterior or posterior compartment muscles of the lower leg. ART® usually resolves this in two to three treatments. However, if the patient runs with improper shoes, it can complicate the case. I have had excellent results with RoadRunnerSports.com. With a series of questions, Road Runner Sports can determine the shoe that is right for your specific needs.

Is It Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?
Q: My 4th and 5th fingers get numb, particularly when I do dumbbell curls. I am on a computer more than 40 hours per week. Is this carpal tunnel?

A: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is probably the most misdiagnosed, and therefore mistreated, condition in this country. However, what you are describing is probably an ulnar nerve entrapment. When you perform dumbbell curls, you probably flex your wrist and move your pinky toward your forearm. Along with your computer work, you are overworking your flexor carpiulnaris muscle. This develops into a peripheral nerve entrapment of the ulnar nerve. You will need to correct your faulty exercise techniques, get two to four treatments with ART®, learn a specific stretch developed by Dr. Michael Leahy and your problem will resolve.