Shin Splints (Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome): Causes, Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention

What Are Shin Splints?

Shin splints occur due to repetitive stress on the tibia and the surrounding connective tissues, leading to inflammation and pain. They are often linked to training errors, improper footwear, or biomechanical issues such as flat feet or overpronation.

Common Causes of Shin Splints

1. Overuse and Overtraining: Increased intensity or frequency of physical activity too quickly.

2. Flat Feet or Overpronation: Increased stress on the tibia due to improper foot alignment.

3. Improper Footwear: Shoes lacking adequate support or cushioning.

4. Hard or Uneven Surfaces: Running on concrete or uneven terrain can increase impact stress.

5. Muscle Imbalances: Weakness in the calves or other lower limb muscles.

Symptoms of Shin Splints

• Pain along the inner edge of the tibia during or after exercise.

• Swelling in the lower leg.

• Tenderness when touching the shinbone.

• Pain that worsens with activity and subsides with rest.

How Are Shin Splints Diagnosed?

A health professional, such as a physiotherapist, will assess your medical history, activity level, and biomechanics. In severe cases, imaging studies like X-rays or MRIs may rule out stress fractures or other conditions.

Treatment for Shin Splints

1. Rest and Activity Modification

   • Reduce or stop activities causing pain.

   • Engage in low-impact exercises such as swimming or cycling.

2. Cold Therapy

   • Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times daily.

3. Physiotherapy

   • Techniques to address biomechanical issues and muscle imbalances.

   • Stretching and strengthening exercises for the calves, shins, and feet.

4. Footwear and Orthotics

   • Transition to supportive, shock-absorbing shoes.

   • Use custom orthotics if needed.

5. Medication

   • Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications for pain relief (if recommended by a doctor).

Preventing Shin Splints

• Gradually increase activity intensity.

• Wear supportive footwear suited to your activity and foot type.

• Incorporate regular stretching and strengthening exercises into your routine.

• Use proper running techniques and avoid hard surfaces.

• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce impact stress.

How Can Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health Help?

At Palms Physiotherapy, we offer tailored solutions for managing and preventing shin splints:

• Biomechanical Assessments: Identify issues like overpronation or flat feet.

• Rehabilitation Programs: Strengthening and stretching exercises tailored to your needs.

• Custom Orthotics: Improve alignment and reduce stress on the lower limbs.

• Education on Injury Prevention: Techniques and strategies to avoid future injuries.

Contact Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health

Malaga Clinic
Address: 4/637 Marshall Road, Malaga WA 6090
Phone: 6285 6185
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Noranda Clinic
Address: 3/36 Benara Road, Noranda WA 6062
Phone: 9376 1443
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Optimize your health and return to activity with expert care. Visit us today for a comprehensive assessment and personalized treatment plan!