Shin Splints from Archery?

[recondoc]

I recently started shooting traditional again and one of the first things I've noticed is that I'm getting shin splints in my left leg.  I had this a long time ago but never considered it associated with my archery.  I noticed that after a few days of continuous shooting, I'm getting the pain in the exact same spot again.
Has anyone else ever experienced this?  If so, what did you do about it.  I'm going to try some runner's stretches prior to shooting and see if this helps.  
Doc

[BLACK WOLF]

If you're getting shin splints from archery...that's a pretty big indication that you are in need of an exercise program that involves strengthening and stretching of your lower body.

I would suggest weight bearing exercises that challenge your proprioceptive ability by balancing on a Bosu, balance board or something similar.

Ray  

[Wampus]

Best way to prevent shinsplints is to build up the parts of your lower legs that don't normally get a lot of use.  Walk 50 steps on the outside edge of your feet, then 50 steps on the inside edge, then 50 steps backward, bringing your toes up toward you on each backward step.  Sounds simple, but doing that every other day, along with some stretches, will really help.

[recondoc]

Thanks for the input guys.  That's what was baffling me.  I'm a pretty good sized fellow at 6'2" and #225 but have always been very active.  Running, Hiking, Lonnnng Military Career of Groundpounding, Climbing and Walking Oil Platforms, Etc..
The only time I've every had shin splints in my life was when doing lots of downhill runs and shooting traditional bows.  I don't get how the two are tied together but I'll have to stretch more prior to shooting and do some more lower body balance work to see if it helps.
I was mainly curious to see if this is something that happens to more folks than just me.
Thanks again,
Doc

[Bigstick]

Hi,
I am brand new on the forum, and couldn't help noticing your problem.  I had a similar problem with "shin splints" and completely baffled the medics until other symptoms began to emerge.  The problem ended up being a deteriorating vertibra and irritated nerves.  You could be straining your back muscles and putting pressure on one of the nerves serving your leg.  Hope this helps.

[BLACK WOLF]

Great info Bigstick!

Ray