Shin Splints

What are shin splints?
Pain located along the front of your shin is often termed “shin splints”.  The condition, medically known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, is often seen in runners or athletes who do a lot of quick start and stop motions.

What causes shin splints?
Shin splints result from the application of too much stress to the tissues (muscles, tendons) that attach to your shin bone (Tibia).  This tissue overload can be due to several factors such as poor body mechanics, tight calf muscles, improper shoes, running on uneven surfaces, over training, and increasing your training regimen too quickly.

How do you treat shin splints?
Acutely, your best options are to ice and rest the leg to allow the inflammation to calm down.  This process can be accelerated with anti-inflammatory medication, physical therapy modalities, stretching, and soft tissue work.

Before restarting your fitness training or sport, it is important to see a professional at Evolve Physical Therapy + Advanced Wellness who can evaluate your body mechanics, footwear, and muscle balance.  They will also be able to advise you on how to properly design your training program to reach your goals while avoiding re-injury.