Treat shin pain with cold compresses immediately after the workout to reduce inflammation. Proper stretching before the workout should prevent the onset of shin splints. Strengthening of muscles also helps reduce shin splints. The frequent rising on the toes of an aerobics routine often creates pain and tightness in the large muscles in the back of the legs, which can create pain and tightness in the calf and inflammation of the achilles tendon. Again, stretching the calf muscles gently and gradually before and after the workout will ordinarily help alleviate the pain and stiffness.
Women are more likely to develop stress fractures, usually in the lesser metatarsal bones, than men.
When swelling and pain surface, see a podiatrist. X-ray evaluation and early treatment can prevent a disabling injury. As foot specialists trained in all aspects of foot care, podiatrists are also qualified to perform foot surgery if the condition requires it. The bottom line when undertaking an aerobic dance program is to be careful and responsible. Aerobics may even provide a more vigorous workout than jogging, and injuries will inevitably occur if you don't listen to your body and exercise your common sense as well as your muscles.