‘Shin splints’ is a term used to encompass a variety of causes of shin pain. It is usually characterized by pain in the front or inside aspect of the lower leg, during exercise or even when simply walking. Shin splints are commonly split into three categories; front of shin pain (anterior), inside of shin pain (medial), bone pain (tibial stress syndrome, tibial stress fracture), and compartment syndrome.
Cause
Causes are due to repetitive, excessive stress being applied to the lower leg. The most common stresses are;
- Excessive pronation (inward roll of foot)
- Lateral foot strike (heel hitting ground on outside edge)
- Over use (too much training too soon)
- Worn out sports shoes
- Incorrect shoes for sport/exercise
- Unbalanced muscle groups
Treatment
It is important to seek treatment for shin pain as soon as possible so we can reduce your time away from your sporting activity and reduce the chances of complications (i.e stress fractures). Assessment by a Podiatrist can provide proper diagnoses and devise an appropriate treatment plan customized to each individual.
Treatment will depend on;
- Diagnoses
- Duration/site of symptoms
- Foot function
- Footwear
- Activity level