|
Shin splints usually involve
small tears in the leg muscles where they are attached to
the shin bone. The two types of shin splints are: anterior
shin splints, in the front portion of the tibia; and
posterior shin splints, occurring on the inside of the leg
along the tibia.
Cause
Shin splints can be caused when the anterior leg muscles
are stressed by running, especially on hard surfaces or
extensively on the toes, or by sports that involve
jumping. Wearing athletic shoes that are worn out or don’t
have enough shock absorption can also cause this
condition. Over-pronated (flat feet) are another factor
that can lead to increased stress on the lower leg muscles
during exercise. People with high arched feet can also
experience shin splint discomfort because this foot type
is a poor shock absorber.
Treatment and Prevention
The best way to prevent shin splints is to stretch and
strengthen the leg muscles, wear footwear with good shock
absorption, and avoid running on hard surfaces or
excessive running or jumping on the ball-of-the-foot.
Insoles or orthotics that offer arch support for over-pronation
are also important.
Treatment for shin splints
should include taking a break from the exercise that is
causing the problem until pain subsides. Icing the area
immediately after running or other exercise can also be
effective, along with gentle stretching before and after
training. Another option is taking aspirin or ibuprofen to
relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
It is important not to try
to train through the pain of shin splints. Runners should
decrease mileage for about a week and avoid hills or hard
surfaces. If a muscle imbalance, poor running form or flat
feet are causing the problem, a long-term solution might
involve a stretching and strengthening program and
orthotics that support the foot and correct over-pronation.
In more severe cases, ice massage, electrostimuli, heat
treatments and ultra-sound might be used.
Your podiatric
physician/surgeon has been trained specifically and
extensively in the diagnosis and treatment of all manners
of foot conditions. This training encompasses all of the
intricately related systems and structures of the foot and
lower leg including neurological, circulatory, skin, and
the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints,
ligaments, tendons, muscles, and nerves. |
