Waiver Help for shin splints

[KSM]

I just found out on Friday I have been permanently disqualified from going to OCS because I have a history of shin splints/stress fractures and eczema. I need to know my options right now because I am not prepared to give up on this dream.


I initially tried to become a Marine a few years ago through the PLC program. I went to OCC(C)-198 and was sent home for shin splints because I couldn't make the run time. This opened up my eyes to how much harder I needed to work to be physically qualified for my next chance in OCC-201. Over this year between these OCS classes I became much more physically prepared. When I went back to OCC-201 they X-rayed my right shin during in-processing and found a stress fracture, making me a “candidate of concern”. On the initial PFT I did ok on the crunches, I had a slow run, and I screwed up the pull-ups. I messed up the pull-ups because I am an idiot and didn't listen to the PTI calling them out. I did 18 but they only counted 9 because they said I didn't go high enough above the bar. This lowered my overall score and made me see the Colonel who said I should go home, heal up and come back at a later date. It is no ones fault but my own that I did not make it through Marine OCS. When I got back I made the decision to apply to the Navy because I know there is a lesser emphasis on running during OCS. I was pro req'd for SNA about two months ago with the Navy and when they reviewed my medical paperwork they said I needed a letter from my doctor saying my shins are fine. When I turned that in they came back a week later and said my waivers are disapproved. I have had waivers for my eczema before so I know that is no issue but I don't know what to do now that they disapproved me for my shins. My recruiter said my only options are wait a year and re-apply which still wouldn't be a sure thing or contact Senator McCain and get a letter from him. I'm sorry for the long post but I need to know my options and where I need to go from here to make this happen.

 

[hotwings]

I have no idea how to help i just wanted to wish you good luck, sounds like your in a shitty situation

 

[feddoc]

Since the shin issue appears to be the problem, get it fixed. Get your hiney to a podiatrist or an orthopedic specialist. Whatever you have been trying isn't working. Are you getting info on this issue from others? What did you do a few years ago to correct it?

 

[AF-E/Navy-O]

Hopefully this helps a little

I have a history of shin splints/stress fractures...

I'm new to this blogging deal, but hopefully I can help a little bit with the running issue. I've been a big runner for a while and just completed the Chicago Marathon....so I know a little about the shin issues.

The advice about seeing a pediatrist is certainly necessary! Physical therapy may be a good choice, too. Though shin splints seem like a simple issue to most, getting professional help on strengthening may be the best thing you can do, before you screw anything else up by just trying to "get more physically fit" for OCS. Sometimes, we push ourselves too hard and end up going in the negative direction by our motivation.

Shin splints, as you have found out, are nothing to mess with. Honestly, resting is the ONLY thing that is going to completely heal you. You can't push through it. You will just end up furthering the severity of your injury or if coming back too soon you will reinjure yourself.

I dealt with shin splints several times through marathon training. There were days that my schedule called for 10 mile, 12 mile and up to 18 mile runs and I simply had to push it off because of shin splints. Most advice requires at least 6 weeks (almost like bone problems) to heal. When you come back from injury you should do graduated workouts.

First, make sure you see professionals about proper shoe fit. Have them examine your step, running stride and pronation. Shoe fit should NEVER be overlooked. I'm sorry, but the saying, "You get what you pay for," couldn't be more accurate when buy running shoes for people who are dealing with recurring injuries. When you find the right shoes and come back after healing up, start on a treadmill. Yeah, it may be mentally exhausting, but it's softer on the joints and muscles. Place the treadmill on a 1 percent incline to simulate true ground conditions. After strengthening for several weeks, find an "offficial" track to run on. The rubber is good cushion, but closer to true road conditions than a treadmill. From there, try to intertwine road running. Don't do too much at once. That's the worst mistake to make.

Even after running a big race like the Chicago Marathon, I still have things that I can improve on. Everyone has areas they can improve on in running. There are so many sources to use to practice correct running posture. Really, it does help! Don't ignore it. It may take some time, but you'll have much better results if you stick to a theraputic routine.

Good luck! I hope you're able to get where you want to go!

 

[KSM]

Thank you all for the advice and support. As of right now I think my shins are just fine and ready for OCS. I have been running about 3 times per week and doing a little weight training with them as well. I have talked to a lot of people about the issue and implemented many techniques that seem to have helped.
The main issue right now is convincing the Navy that they are ok. I got a letter from an orthopedic surgeon who said I am asymptomatic and fit for duty. My recruiter said they didn't really care about the letter even though they asked for it. He also said it is now out of his hands and I am on my own. I talked to Senator McCain's office and they said they will look in to it but no guarantees. So according to my recruiter my only other option is to wait a year and re-apply. Is the Navy just able to be that picky right now due to the economy with the surge in applicants?