Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, are a common condition that affects athletes, runners, and people who participate in high-impact sports. According to one study, approximately 15% of running injuries are caused by shin splints, making it a common problem in the United Kingdom. Shin splints can be painful and impair one’s ability to perform physical activities, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, symptoms can be managed, and future injuries avoided.
Shin splints are usually caused by overuse of the leg muscles, which can result in small tears in the muscle fibres and inflammation of the surrounding tissue. Some other causes may include:
- Wearing improper or worn-out footwear
- Running or jumping on hard surfaces
- Having flat feet or high arches
- Weakness in the hip or core muscles
- Tightness in the calf muscles
The most common symptom of shin splints is pain along the shin bone, which may be dull or sharp and can range from mild to severe. The pain is usually felt during and after physical activity and may subside with rest. Other symptoms may include:
- Swelling and tenderness along the shin bone
- Pain when the toes or foot are bent downwards
- Numbness or weakness in the foot
- A feeling of tightness in the calf muscles
If you have shin splints, it is critical to seek medical attention to confirm the diagnosis and determine the best course of treatment. A physical exam may be performed, and imaging tests such as X-rays or an MRI may be ordered to rule out other conditions.
Shin splints are typically treated with rest and self-care measures such as applying ice to the affected area, taking anti-inflammatory medication, and stretching and strengthening exercises. It is critical to avoid activities that aggravate the condition and to gradually increase physical activity as symptoms improve.
R3 Physiotherapy can be useful in most cases to help manage symptoms and prevent future injuries. By addressing underlying biomechanical issues and providing targeted exercises and education, physiotherapy can play an important role in the treatment and prevention of shin splints. Our qualified physiotherapist can evaluate your condition and create a customised treatment plan that may include:
- Manual therapy techniques to reduce pain and inflammation
- Stretching and strengthening exercises to improve flexibility and stability
- Gait analysis and correction to improve biomechanics and reduce stress on the legs
- Education on proper footwear, training techniques, and injury prevention strategies
In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to repair or remove damaged tissue or bone.
To avoid shin splints, gradually increase physical activity and avoid abrupt changes in intensity or duration. Proper footwear and equipment, such as shock-absorbing insoles, can also aid in reducing leg stress.
Strengthening the hip and core muscles can also help with stability and injury prevention. Exercises such as squats, lunges, and planks can help with this.
In conclusion, shin splints can be a painful and aggravating condition, but with proper diagnosis and treatment, symptoms can be managed, and future injuries avoided. R3 Physiotherapy can assist by addressing underlying biomechanical issues as well as providing targeted exercises and education. If you have shin splints, it is critical to seek medical attention and take steps to manage your condition. You can continue to enjoy physical activities while reducing stress on your legs and lowering your risk of shin splints by taking preventative measures and seeking appropriate treatment.
References
Thacker SB, Gilchrist J, Stroup DF, Kimsey CD. The prevention of shin splints in sports: a systematic review of literature. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2002 Jan;34(1):32-40. doi: 10.1097/00005768-200201000-00006. PMID: 11782644.
Bhusari N, Deshmukh M. Shin Splint: A Review. Cureus. 2023 Jan 18;15(1):e33905. doi: 10.7759/cureus.33905. PMID: 36819450; PMCID: PMC9937638.