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Shin Splints
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
- Pain is usually described as an ache that is located in three areas of the lower leg
- Usually worsens with activity but can be severe enough that it occurs just while walking
- Usually develops over a period of time and can have swelling over the involved area
DEFINITIONS AND ANATOMY
AKA: Tibial Stress Syndrome
- Location is based on the muscles that are involved
- Anterior - Pain is located on the outside (lateral) upper portion of the lower leg (Anterior tibialis, extensor digitorum, extensor hallicus muscles)
- Medial - Pain is located on the inside (medial) lower portion of the lower leg (Posterior tibialis, flexor digitorum, flexor hallicus muscles)
- Lateral - Pain is located behind and under the outside (lateral) of the ankle bone (peroneous longus, peroneus brevis)
 
CAUSATIVE FACTORS
- Primary mechanism is from excessive inward movement (hyperpronation) of the foot, causing stresses on the muscles
- If walker or runner are not in shape then it could be just from over use of the muscles
- If the walker or runner are more experienced then it is from changes of terrain (hills and crowed roads, hard surfaces), increased mileage, Shoes that do not match foot type for maximum support and fit. See Shoes
- Muscle imbalances between the anterior and medial (posterior) either due to strength differences or flexibility.
- Biomechanical abnormalities of the spine, pelvis, leg length abnormalities, joint laxity all resulting in excessive stresses
- Training errors as running on crowned roads, up and down hills, increased mileage, coming of an injury to soon, or simply to fast to soon
TREATMENT CONSIDERATIONS
- Ice to reduce pain and control inflammation and swelling
- Stretching the involved muscle groups
- Wearing appropriate shoes that match foot structure to allow proper movement and support of the foots arches
- Rest and decrease activities that reproduce pain
- If contributing factors are due to Hyperpronation (rolling inward/flat feet) of the feet causing the biomechanical stresses then custom made Spinal Pelvic stabilizers (orthotics) should be considered to support the arches of the foot and control excessive movement
- Get an analysis of your gait cycle (running or walking form) from a biomechanical professional. See How We Can Help
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