<p>I'm a freshman and I started running cross country this year for the first time ever... However for almost the entire season I have had shin problems and just today I went to the doctor about it and he told me it was shin splints and basically the way my legs were shaped I may have problems with pain for as long as I run. Now, because of what the doctor said my mom wants me to quit running cross country, not just for this season so I can heal, which is what she was already pressuring me to do, but forever... I want to take care of my body, but I love running so much, and I feel obligated to keep going, by myself and team, as I'm already one of the top varsity runners. Obviously, I'm really conflicted on what I should do, any runners or people good wiavice that can help? Thanks. </p>
<p>Can you go out for spring track instead, and maybe pick an event that isn’t such long distance? Or do you live in a place where cross country skiing is a school sport? (It is in our state) Lots of cross country runners do those two sports, and it might be easier on your shins to take up one or both of those instead of the punishing long workouts of cross country.</p>