Can heating pads be good for shin splints?

When it comes to shin splints, nothing beats ice and cold therapy! While heat can aggravate inflammation, icing your shins several times a day can significantly reduce pain and swelling. Shin splint discomfort may go away on its own if you use the RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) method and stretch regularly.

Shin splints present as inflammation in the calf muscles. In the initial stage, it causes swelling. Consequently, heating pads are not a good choice as they may increase inflammation. However, once the swelling has subsided, you can use heating pads. Heat will relax any tight muscles and promote healing.