The Road to Shin Splints

(Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Shin splints is an injury that results from cumulative stress brought on by physical activity without benefit of proper conditioning or warm up. It is characterized by pain usually felt in the outer front of the lower leg. Because of the pain location next to the tibia, shin splints are also referred to as medial tibial stress syndrome. Shin splints are a common complaint of athletes whose rigorous physical activity includes a lot of sudden starts, stops and running like football, basketball or soccer. The pain may tend to cease when you stop exercising and ease up with rest, but eventually it will probably return if not treated. Thankfully, shin splints respond well to:

• Rest
• Ice
• Over-the-counter pain medication

If you have tried conservative treatment methods and your pain has intensified and does not improve with rest, you should see Dr. Blaakman. By questioning you, Dr. Blaakman may find that your shin splints can be traced back to:

• Running downhill or on a slanted or uneven surface
• Running in footwear that lacks the proper cushioning, or is worn beyond usefulness
• Rigorous sports activity
• Running too hard, fast and long to avoid stress overload

Sometimes shin splints can be caused by biomechanical weakness or abnormalities. In these instances, after a complete evaluation, Dr. Blaakman may be able to prescribe custom orthotics that would correct faulty movement, bring your body back into correct alignment and allow you to move pain free. Other treatment options include taping, bracing, stretching and medication.

Shin splints can be avoided or prevented from returning by paying close attention to the surfaces you walk or run on, the condition of your shoes and adequate warm up activity. If running is the cause of your shin splints, there is no need to completely give up the activity. Limit the time spent and intensity of running. Change to a more mild form of aerobic exercise such as swimming or bicycling until you are healed enough to resume regular activity. Return to normal routine slowly and with proper conditioning and take a couple of days off running and do some strength training, including a workout for your toes. Slowly rise up on your toes, and slowly lower to the floor. Repeating this ten times can gradually build up strength.

Call Dr. Blaakman at (877) 941-3338 if your pain persists. He has great treatment options just right for getting you off the round-a-bout of pain and on the road to recovery.

References:

http://www.upstatefootcare.com/new-patients/video-library/
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/shin-splints/DS00271

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