Posted on April 3, 2008 in Latest News
The full name for shin splints is ‘Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome’ which defines the condition as a syndrome in which stress, over time, has caused an injury to the medial (inside) part of the tibia (lower leg). The term “shin splints” refers to pain and tenderness along or just behind the inner edge of the tibia, the large bone in the lower leg.
Shin splints are a common lower extremity complaint, especially among runners and other athletes. 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.
Causes
Shin splints is not a diagnosis in itself but a description of symptoms of which there could be a number of causes. The most common cause is inflammation of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone). 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
Shock absorbing insoles can help reduce the shock and impact transmitted through the foot to the lower leg, particularly when running on hard surfaces for long periods of time. Taping the shins will often alleviate the pain dramatically. To tape your shin, buy some wide hockey or trainers tape, about 1½ inch wide. If your legs are hairy you’ll need pre-wrap foam or shave your leg. You’ll need to tape in an upside-down ‘V’ pattern. Wrap around the shin once and then tear. Repeat this for a total of 3-4 strips making sure each one overlaps.
Apply ice packs to the affected shin for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, four times a day for several days. To protect your skin, wrap the ice packs in a thin towel.
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