I received questions from Shawn and Brooke about shin splints in the comment section of my last post, so I figured I would address the topic for everyone to read!
Shin Splints
What is a shin splint? A shin splint is pain along or just behind the shin bone (or tibia), the large bone in the front of your lower leg. A shin splint is medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome.
What causes a shin splint? Shin splits happen during physical activity, not just running, and are a result of too much force being placed on the shinbone and connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. Shin splints are common in runners and in those who participate in sports with sudden stops and starts, such as soccer, tennis, and basketball.
What are the symptoms of shin splints? Some symptoms of shin splints are tenderness, soreness, or pain along the inner part of your lower leg as well as mild swelling in your lower leg. It's important to see a doctor if your shin is hot and inflamed, the swelling gets worse, or if the pain continues during rest.
How are shin splints diagnosed? Shin splints are typically diagnosed based on your medical history and a physical exam.
How are shin splints treated? In most cases, you can treat shin splints with a few simple steps:
- Rest or try low-impact activities such as swimming or bicycling.
- Ice your shin for 15 to 20 minutes at a time, four to eight times a day for several days.
- Elevate the affected shin above the level of your heart, especially at night to reduce swelling.
- Compress the area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as Ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
- Wear the right shoes. Your doctor might recommend a shoe that is suited for your stride, foot, or particular sport.
Resume your regular activities gradually. If your shin isn't 100% healed, returning to your usual activities may only cause your shin splints to reoccur.
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| Here is a photo of some stretches that have been known to help with shin splints. |
Helpful links about shin splints:
Have you ever suffered from shin splints or another injury?
Have a question about running? Ask it in the comments section!
Thanks Allie!
ReplyDeleteI was a receiver and corner in football, so I was always on my toes and putting a ton of pressure on my shins/ankles/feet in and out of breaks. That, a lot of conditioning and no treatment were probably the three factors that led to persistent shin splints.
After about a decade of fighting through shin splints, I'll try to treat them for once. Thanks again.
I agree, great post! Luckily I haven't had much of a problem since high school, but I plan to start running more again this summer so this will help!
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