What are Shin Splints?

Feb 21, 2020 | Sports Podiatry

Shin splints is the common term for medial tibial stress syndrome. It is an overuse disorder of the middle to lower front part of the leg. In this blog we discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment of shin splints.

What are the symptoms?

Some of the common symptoms of shin splints include:

  • Ache in the middle to lower front part of the leg even when resting
  • Pain develops during exercise
  • Muscle pain in the middle to lower front part of the leg
  • Swelling occurring in the middle to lower front part of the leg
  • Numbness and weakness in the feet
  • Tenderness and soreness developing on the inner part of the lower leg.

Shins splints are diagnosed with the Podiatrist performing a lower limb bio-mechanical assessment, however if there is a fracture suspected, you will require an x-ray.

What are the causes of shin splints?

Overuse, repetitive and excessive force on the middle to lower front part of the leg can cause shin splints. This causes the inflammation of muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your tibia putting pressure on the bone. This can include:

  • Starting or intensifying a sport or training.
  • Flat Feet & High Arches
  • Tight calf muscles
  • Running on uneven ground
  • The wrong footwear by wearing inappropriate or worn-out shoes for running or working out
  • Sports that are stop start like netball or soccer
  • Incorrect training techniques
  • Being overweight
  • Undertaking high-impact exercises on hard, noncompliant surfaces (such as running on asphalt or concrete)
  • Lack of flexibility
  • Having pre-existing foot and ankle problems.

Treatment of shin splints

They can be treated with the following treatment options:

  • Shock Wave Therapy
  • Low Level Laser Therapy
  • Foot Strapping
  • Personalised stretching and strengthening exercise regime
  • Custom Made Orthotics
  • Foot Mobilisation Technique
  • Footwear Advice

Moreland Podiatry

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms we’ve mentioned above, our expert Podiatrists can assess the problem, advise you of the issue and work with you to devise a personalised plan to get you back to exercise as soon as possible.

Call Moreland Podiatry if you have any further questions regarding Shin Splints or book an appointment online to speak to one of our expert podiatrists in person.