What are shin splints?

Shin splints is the name given to pain at the front of the lower leg. The most common cause is inflammation of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone). The injury is an overuse injury and can be caused by running on hard surfaces, running on tip toes and sports where a lot of jumping is involved. If you over pronate then you are also more susceptible to this injury.

Symptoms include:

• Tenderness over the inside of the shin.
• Lower leg pain.
• Sometimes some swelling.
• Lumps and bumps over the bone.
• Pain when the toes or foot are bent downwards.
• A redness over the inside of the shin

What can the athlete do about it?

• Rest. The sooner you rest the sooner it will heal.
• Apply ice in the early stages when it is very painful.
• Wear shock absorbing insoles in shoes.
• Maintain fitness with other non weight bearing exercises.
• Apply heat and use a heat retainer after the initial acute stage, particularly before training.
• See a sports injury specialist who can advise on treatment and rehabilitation.
• Learn how taping is applied to relieve pain and allow the shin to rest.

What can a sports injury specialist or doctor do?

• Prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen. *
• Tape the ankle for support. - A taping worn all day will allow the shin to rest properly.
• Analyse running style for over pronation.
• Use sports massage techniques on the posterior deep muscle compartment but avoid the inflammed periostium.
• Operate

* Important: Always consult a doctor before taking medication. Anti inflammatory drugs along with rest and ice can help reduce inflammation, particularly in the early stages. However if the underlying causes such as tight muscles are not treated through stretching and sports massage techniques then the likelyhood of the injury returning is higher.

Disclaimer: The information provided is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The opinions expressed on this site are not endorsed by New Balance Athletic Shoe, Inc.