What causes shin splints?
There could be a
number of causes of shin splints. The most common cause is inflammation
of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the bone). Shin pain
and inflammation are caused by traction forces occurring from the
muscles of the lower leg on the periostium.
What are the symptoms?
You will experience tenderness over the inside of the shin. The lower
leg pain will be gone after a period of rest but the pain returns when
you start running again.
When you feel the inside of the shin bone, you may detect lumps and bumps.
What can you do?
Rest is necessary to allow the injury to heal.
Apply ice or cold therapy in the early stages, particularly when it is very painful. It can reduce pain and inflammation.
Stretch the muscles of the lower leg as the tibialis posterior is associated with shin splints.
You need to minimize shock on the lower leg by wearing shock absorbing insoles in shoes.
How is shin splint treated?
The doctor will prescribe anti-inflammatory medication. An analysis on
your running style for over pronation and other biomechanical problems
of the foot will be conducted.
Sports physiotherapy techniques
which may include stretching, strengthening, taping and electrotherapy
treatment may b recommended. It will help to reduce inflammation and
correct biomechanical flaws.