Running shoes for shin splints?

I have been struggling with shin splints for 3 years I currently weigh 86 pounds and i am 5 ft tall. I run long distance (cross country 5k's, 1600,3200,800 in track) i wear a mizuno wave alchemy right now, but i purchased a Nike Free 2 this weekend. I would like to run in these shoes but im worried they may exacerbate my shin splints. I have heard both good and bad about these shoes for shin splints, (strengthening muscles to help shins, and just causing shin pain) i was wondering if i should just start out wearing them once a week and gradually increase use? what would be the most helpful way?