Below you’ll find information regarding the symptoms, treatment and prevention of Shin Splints, a common leg injury often caused by foot problems and resulting in pain in the shin area.

PROBLEM:

Microscopic muscle strain at the muscle to bone interface on the shin bone causing pain and deep inflammation on the inside of the lower leg.

Shin Splints CAUSE:

Excessive activity over a short period of time in an unconditioned athlete
Postural foot problems such as low arch feet or high arch feet
Tight muscles, particularly in the calf muscles

Shin Splints SYMPTOMS:

Pain along the shin bone at the beginning of an exercise or athletic activity that is moderate and then loosens within a few minutes
Pain may reappear in the midst of or at the end of the exercise or athletic activity

Shin Splints SIGNS:

Mild to moderate tenderness to touch the shin bone over a one or two inch area
No swelling is usually present
If swelling is present, combined with moderately severe to severe tenderness, a stress fracture may be present- this happens frequently if shin splints are not promptly or adequately treated

Shin Splints TREATMENT:

Shin Splint compression sleeve to help reduce inflammation and support the muscle to bone interface
Custom molded prescription orthotics (shoe insert) to support any foot or leg postural malalignment
Physical therapy modalities to help reduce the deep inflammation at the muscle to bone interface
Oral anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce discomfort
Stretching of tight muscles to reduce overstrain on the muscle-bone interface
Night splint to reduce muscle tightness and low grade spasm of tight muscles while sleeping
Occasionally, immobilization in a walking boot or walking cast may be necessary to rest the area