Whilst training for the Great Glasgow Run last year I developed shin splints. For the most part it was only my left shin, but then it developed in both legs. I know now that they were brought on because I increased my mileage dramatically from 10k to 20K per run over a very short time period (schoolboy error, I know). I was wearing Asics 2100's at the time. They are of course neutral, but were providing a very good cushion, however after consultation and analysis by my local running shop I moved into Nike Air Structure Triax 10, a very cushioned support shoe suitable for an over-pronator (like me). They helped a little, as did RICE, but the problem persisted so much so that I had to pull out of the race. I was absolutely gutted, and only took part in one race last year a result. Anyhow, after further consultation with other runners I decided to give the legs a rest and pack it in for the year.

I started running again last week for the first time in 4 months, and thought I'd ease myself in slowly. Last Wednesday I ran 8k on the treadmill. No major problems. Then I ran 10k yesterday, again on the tread, and I started to feel that all too familiar twinge again. Not bad, but I knew exactly what it was. This morning I tried a road run. After only 2k I was feeling very sharp pains in my left shin again. The pain continued right through my run (which I cut short) and continue even now when I write this. I am gutted. I have an ice pack stuffed into my calf support which is helping, but my main concern is the sharp pains whilst I run. These can't be ignored.

If any of you have any suggestion that might help me sort this I would gladly listen.
I cannot bear to let this problem interfere with my training again.

After that prolonged lay off and your previous comment it's clear too much too soon again

You should get into the mindset of a beginner again and start with very short runs even if it's for the first month,however unsatisfying this seems.

Then and only then should you consider upping the distance ,and by small increments
but only if your not struggling with the same kind of pains it has been proven time and time again that this kind of approach works best.

Try running on a more forgiving surface i.e grass and get in the swimming pool for some no impact aerobic

The correct shoes should help
I know all this sounds terribly dull but you did ask !!

GOOD LUCK AND TAKE IT EASY!!

Yeah I think swimming, and definitely spin classes are a good answer and will go along to a couple of them with my missus (albeit only to be completely put to shame, as she is a cruel spin mistress).

My shoes are fine and provide good support and cushion, and the treadmill is a reasonably forgiving surface.

I think you're right about the distance though, as much as I hate to admit it to myself.

Short runs are so terribly unfulfilling, but I think it is the only answer. Given my previous distances I didn't think 10k on a tread would be a problem, but obviously it is! Ho hum.

Thanks for the reply. Much appreciated!

__________________
The runner formerly known as Itokuzu