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

Related articles

• Shins and Running
• Dr. K: Rest is best way to help shin splits heal
• How To Avoid Shin Splints

Football and Soccer Cleats - Prepare Now for Autumn Sports

F50.9 TUNIT (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

It may seem like school just let out, but time is fleeting and the beginning of the school year is closer than you think. If you have a young student that participates in football or soccer, take a little time out and begin to prepare. Chances are you will need to consider new cleats, specific to their sport. Seldom can a growing youngster or teen get two seasons out of a pair of shoes. They grow too fast!

Any concerned and involved parent is going to be concerned with the safety of their child. Shoes are a major consideration. They go a long way to protect the foot and ankle regardless of the sport. For football, shoes that allow for running, the proper amount of side to side motion as well as flexion are important. Prior to investing money, make sure you are in synch with the regulatory agencies that govern safety for the age group or divisions your child plays in. You may wish to consult a coach or school official for information, but consider the following:

• Purchase new shoes. You may think hand me downs or used will save you money. They may look good on the outside, but be completely worn on the inside. If the cushioning and inner structure is lacking support, it is a wiser decision to go with new shoes.

• Make sure that the cleats or cleat patterns are in compliance and are appropriate for the surfaces your youngster will be playing on.

Purchasing the best quality cleats available is not going to make anyone a star. It’s not about the money. Shoes that fit snug, but not tight are important. A sport store that specializes in what you are outfitting for has knowledgeable staff familiar with fitting shoes. If shoes do not fit appropriately or if they hurt the feet, it can prevent the athlete from playing up to their potential. Leather shoes are usually preferable, but in wet conditions they become weighty and burdensome. Cleat lengths vary, so you need to carefully consider the surface. Consult a local professional for recommendations.

If your child experiences an injury, consult with Dr. Blaakman at (877) 941-FEET. His knowledge and experience can guide you and help to maintain foot health and safety.
 
References:

http://www.livestrong.com/article/14240-choose-soccer-cleats/

Related articles

• Soccer Girl Essentials...a buyer's guide

  ---

• Within Football Online games Demand Inside soccer cleats

  ---

• How to Cycle With Cleats

  ---