Footnotes / Blog
Shin splints present as pain along the front of the lower leg between the knee and the ankle.
“Medial tibial stress syndrome” is an inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your tibia. Pain typically occurs along the inner border of the tibia, where muscles attach to the bone.
Causes
Shin splints usually develop when the muscle and bone tissue (periosteum) in the leg become overworked by repetitive activity.
- Having flat feet or abnormally rigid arches
- Exercising with improper or worn-out footwear
- Quickly increasing your activity level.
- Common in runners and dancers.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of shin splints is pain along the border of the tibia. Mild swelling in the area may also occur. They are sometimes sore to the touch as well.
Treatment
Rest: Several weeks of rest are usually necessary since shin splints are often an overuse injury.
NSAIDS: Ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen reduce pain and swelling.
Ice: Use cold packs for 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
Compression. Wearing an elastic compression bandage may prevent additional swelling.
Stretching: Elongating your calf muscles takes stress off of the front of the legs, which can help alleviate pain.
Proper Shoegear/Orthotics: Wearing shoes with good cushioning during daily activities will help reduce stress in your shins. Proper support with orthotic shoe inserts can help stabilize and align the foot in proper relation to the lower leg.
Prevention
- Wear proper fitting supportive shoes
- Stretch daily
- Cross train
- Slowly increase training (Most important)’
The doctors at Innovative Foot and Ankle can diagnose and treat your possible shin splints. We treat all issues relating to the foot, ankle and lower leg. We are located in Northern New Jersey with office locations in Kenilworth, Bayonne, Little Ferry and Montclair.