Leg pain

Question
Hi Pat,

I would like to ask you a question.

I have just bought a new inline rollerblade today and started using them. (I used to play the rollerskate eighteen years ago.) It was fine when I made a little glide for an hour. After that I started playing faster.

The problem is, the hard support on the top of the boot compressed the lateral side of my legs for 2-3 inches long above the lateral malleolus (both sides). It was so painful that I had to stop playing periodically. I have no idea whether my technique was wrong or the boot was tied too loosely. There was no pain on my feet but there is still the redness from compression on my legs.

Please advice me how to play correctly and thank you very much in advance.

Sincerely,
Rubin

Answer
Hi Rubin,
  It sound to me like you have the skates tied or strapped to tight. You have to remember when you put them on that your leg if fairly straight, so there's no pressure.  When you skate you have to bend your knees which pushes pressure in a downward direction.  Being that the boot is hard, nothing will give or bend like it does with a leather or fabric boot.   
  
  The pain you feel is from your shin pressing the boot downward and compressing.  I would try loosening the ties or straps to allow room for your ankle to bend without causing you pain.

  Try it again and hopefully this will help.   If you have any more trouble, feel free to write me again.

  Good Luck
Pat