Shin Splints

What are Shin Splints?

The term ‘shin splints‘ refers to generalized pain in the front of the lower leg along the shin bone (tibia). Shin splints are the result of trauma to either the muscles or bones of the lower leg. Muscle trauma can result from things such as over-training or excessive running on hard surfaces.

Overuse makes the muscles swell, putting pressure on the connective tissue (fascia) that covers and connects the muscles to the tibia. The end result is pressure and pain. Alternatively, bone trauma resulting from the repeated pounding associated with running can cause tiny cracks/fractures (i.e., stress fractures) in the lower leg bones (tibia and/or fibula).

Risk factors for shin splints include: running on hard surfaces, wearing worn out or poorly cushioned footwear, improper stretching, lack of warm-up, training too hard, increasing mileage too quickly, etc.

Treatment of Shin Splints

Pain and inflammation associated with shin splints can be treated using the R.I.C.E. regimen. Activity should be resumed gradually, and using non-weight bearing activities (e.g., swimming or biking) until discomfort disappears. If the pain continues for three weeks or longer, seek the advice of a medical professional.

Alphabetical Index of Injuries:

» Achilles Tendon Rupture
» Achilles Tendonitis
» Calf Pull, Strain, or Tear
» Concussion
» Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS)
» Dislocated Shoulder
» Golfer’s Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
» Groin Pull, Strain, or Tear
» Hamstring Pull, Strain, or Tear
» Heel Spurs (Bone Spurs)
» High Ankle Sprain (Syndesmotic Ankle Sprain)
» Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS)
» Little League Elbow (Medial Epicondylitis)
» Plantar Fasciitis
» Runner’s Knee (Chondromalacia Patellae)
» Separated Shoulder
» Sever’s Disease (Calcaneal Apophysitis)
» Shin Splints
» Sprained AC Joint
» Sprained Ankle
» Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)
» Torn Rotator Cuff
» Turf Toe (Metatarsalphalangeal Joint Sprain)