Shin splints are an inflammation of the muscle attachments and interosseous membranes to the tibia (shin bone) on the inside of the front of the lower leg. It is a very common running injury as well as in sports played on hard surfaces such as basketball, volleyball, tennis, etc.
The condition is usually just felt during high impact activities. There are little to no symptoms or problems during regular activities.
Other names or similar foot conditions:
- Periostitis
Symptoms:
- Pain or tenderness along the inside of the shin, usually about halfway down the shin. Pain and tenderness may extend to the knee
- Pain on palpation of the shin
- Pain is most severe at the start of a run, but may disappear during a run, as the muscles loosen up. (This is different from a stress fracture where there is pain during weight bearing activities)
Signs to look for:
- Pain on palpation of the shin
- No symptoms except when engaging in running or other intense weight bearing activity
Possible Causes:
- Inflexible calf muscles and tight Achilles tendons
- Overpronation (feet rotate too far inward on impact)
- Excessive running on hard surfaces, such as concrete pavements
- Overtraining, or a rapid increase in training load or intensity
Goals:
- Align feet, ankles, knees and hips
- Regular stretching of leg muscles
- Moderate shock on feet and legs while running
- For overpronating foot, running shoes made with extra medial support
How We Help:
Arch Supports:
- BioOrthotic exercising support with a metatarsal lift
- Lower and thinner arch support with longitudinal and metatarsal support for back-up wear
Shoes:
- For athletic and recreational wear, shoes with firm heel counter and with the correct personal stride component in the shoe
- If not already wearing Spira shoes for running, alternate with Spira shoes (titanium springs) for training
- Extra depth, double or triple depth shoe with high toe box, firm heel counter, rocker sole and connecting shank for regular wear
- Smart footwear such as heel to toe rockers, negative heel shoes or shoes with titanium springs
- If regular flip-flop wearer, wear only the Orthaheel, Alegria or Aetrex brand
Activities:
- Avoid exercising on hard, unforgiving surfaces until arch support and shoes obtained
- Regular stretching program before and after exercise
- Rotate weight bearing exercises, such as walking or jogging, with non-weight bearing exercising, such as swimming or bicycling
This information does not constitute a diagnosis of your condition and does not take the place of a doctor’s care. The information has been compiled from sources available to the general public and referenced below. Copyright 2005-2010 Carole Romig
Sources Image: D. Denlinger, A New Foot Health Solution Text: Time-to-run.com, nismat.org