Treatments for Shin Splints

7. The Foot "Wet Test"

Because wearing the proper running shoe is so crucial to preventing shin splints, it's important for you to determine what kind of arch you have. An easy way to test which you have is the “Wet Test.” It only takes a little water, paper, and about five minutes of your time. First, lay out the paper; a dark color often works best. Try a brown paper bag from your local grocery store. Get the bottom of your foot wet, step onto the paper, and step off. Based on the amount of footprint you see, you will be able to tell your arch. If much of the sole of your foot is visible, then you are a pronator. If just the outside edge of your sole appears, then you are likely a supinator. If it looks to be well balanced, you probably have an efficient neutral arch.