I must not have stretched near enough last night when I went out and ran because my legs are KILLING me today. It started in the calves and moved to the front and with every step I took it got worse and worse. It's a shooting pain down the middle. I got to work and the girl who does UPS ship out was sick so I had to do that job. I was busier than crap and didn't sit down once besides my half hour at lunch. I guess I should've just walked since I hadn't run in so long. But, are there any stretches I can do now that the damage is done? I've tried a few things but they only stretch my calves and upper thigh (quads?). What stretches the front of the legs, my shins are on fire!

I'm so sorry that you're in pain!!

I always put my toes on the wall with my heel on the ground. I stretch it and that really helps my calves!

Yes, the above. I actually just put the balls of my feet on something higher than the ground and then with your upper body leaning forward a bit and bending the knees to really get the stretch.

also, you can take 200 mg of ibuprofen (Advil).

~CGH~

I'm dying today. I was doing lunges and I guess I did more than I should have. It hurts to walk. But at least I know I am doing something right.

Im always happy when it hurts! that means its working!

Sounds like you have shin splints my dear.

The only thing that can get rid of them is time.

Try to stay OFF of your feet, elevate your legs, and put ice on your shins. That will help speed up the healing process. Shin splints KILL. I got them a lot when I'd push myself extra hard, had bad shoes, or ran on a weird surface. A few days and you'll be good to go again.

Oh and a great after running stretch that my physical therapist told me about, it's good for the hamstrings, knees, hips... everything!

Standing with your feet together, cross one foot over the other all the way on the other side. Then bend down and touch your toes.

garstar, that sounds like a great stretch.
i always like to take a hot shower after i've exercised and stretched, and just kinda rub down all the muscles i've worked. it probably doesn't do anything for the muscles, but it is really relaxing.