Shin Splints

Shin splints presents as pain to the front of the lower leg. Shin splints are most commonly caused by inflammation to the sheath surrounding the tibial bone. The pain and discomfort results from traction forces that overload the tibia. The connective tissue that attaches your muscles to the bone are irritated. The repeated pulling of the muscle that attaches to the tibia causes shin splints.

Some symptoms include tenderness to the inside of the shin, lower leg pain, tenderness and sometimes swelling or redness to the area. Some specific athletic activities can predispose you to shin splints; these include things like running downhill or on a slanted surface, shoes that are worn out, or sports/activities that involve lots of stopping and starting.

It is important to get treatment as the condition can progress to stress fractures of the tibia. Your Podiatrist can provide you with an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate treatment plan. Treatment will include a combination of rest, ice, massage, stretching and strengthening exercises, footwear advice and orthotic therapy may be indicated. For runners, advice on your training and running technique may also be required from your Podiatrist.