I woke up Monday morning with a little, tiny sore spot about 2-3" below my right knee. At first I wasn't too concerned. I had planned to take Monday off anyways. I took some Advil, iced the heck out of it and didn't worry about it.
On Tuesday it was still there. Another day off.
On Wednesday it was still there. Yet another day off.
I can't even remember the last time I took 3 days off in a row from running. The thing is it doesn't seem to be getting any better. It doesn't bother me walking around but I notice it going up and down stairs. I almost went for a run today to test it out but figured I'd wait one more day.
Thanks to Dr. Internet, my guess is I've aggravated my Tibialis Anterior muscle, right where it attaches (origin) on the front of my lower leg. Going into the Great Bay Half Marathon I'd been having some minor issues with my right ankle. During the race my calves were tight and sore. Finally to top it off there were several steep downhills on the course. If you toss all these factors into any injury generator you're bound to come up with a sore Tibialis Anterior muscle. I guess I shouldn't be surprised it's sore. Not quite full blown shin splints though.
So in addition to rest and ice I've also been tenderizing my lower leg with a foam roller, the Stick, a broom handle and a tennis ball. Like I said.....ouch!