Shin Splints

Shin splints treatment

Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to the pain and inflammation along the inner edge of the shinbone, often resulting from repetitive stress on the leg muscles and tissues. Shin splints cause shin pain, which presents itself as aching pain and tenderness along the front or sides of your lower leg. The pain is a result of being active, especially when climbing stairs. Athletes, particularly runners and those engaging in high-impact activities, commonly experience shin splints.

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What are the symptoms of shin splints

If you have shin splints, your symptoms may include:

Pain that begins when you start exercising
Pain that seems to get better as you continue to exercise
Pain that goes away when you rest
A painful area of your leg that feels tender if you touch it

Many people who have shin splints may actually have a stress fracture. If you have a stress fracture, only a small area of your leg will usually feel tender and you may find the pain keeps getting worse every time you exercise and from one workout to the next. If the muscle in your leg feels tight, you may have compartment syndrome.

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What does the treatment for shin splints involve?

The primary approach to treating shin splints involves rest, allowing the affected muscles and tissues to heal. Ice application and over-the-counter pain relievers can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. It’s essential to modify or temporarily halt activities that contribute to the condition. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and gentle strengthening exercises are integral components of rehabilitation.

Supportive footwear with shock-absorbing insoles can also aid in recovery. In persistent cases, professional intervention may be beneficial to address underlying biomechanical issues and guide a structured rehabilitation program.

The best way to access bespoke treatment for your shin splints is to see a qualified and experienced podiatrist. We carry out a comprehensive assessment, considering your foot condition, but also taking into account symptoms being experienced further up the skeleton. The assessment will provide an accurate diagnosis, allowing us to prepare a suitable treatment plan, which may include recommended stretches, custom made orthotics, and footwear advice.

Frequently asked questions

: Shin splints, or medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), are characterised by pain along the inner edge of the shinbone. They commonly occur due to repetitive stress on the shinbone and the tissues attaching the shinbone to the muscles. Causes include overuse, improper footwear, sudden changes in activity, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet.
: To prevent shin splints, it’s essential to gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise, ensuring proper warm-up and cool-down routines. Choosing appropriate footwear with good arch support and shock absorption is crucial. Cross-training and incorporating low-impact activities can also help reduce the risk of overuse injuries. Regular stretching and strengthening exercises for the calf muscles can contribute to overall lower leg health.
: Symptoms of shin splints include pain along the inner edge of the shinbone, tenderness, and swelling. The pain is often experienced during or after physical activity, especially weight-bearing exercises like running. If left unaddressed, shin splints can progress to more severe conditions, so it’s important to recognise and address symptoms promptly.
: Treatment for shin splints involves a combination of rest, ice, compression, and elevation (R.I.C.E.). It’s crucial to avoid activities that exacerbate the pain during the healing process. Stretching exercises for the calf muscles and gentle strengthening exercises may be beneficial. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage pain and inflammation. In some cases, professional intervention such as physical therapy may be recommended to address biomechanical issues and provide a structured rehabilitation program. Persistent or severe cases may require medical evaluation to rule out stress fractures or other complications.