What are shin splints? (Medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS)
Shin splints are a common overuse injury of the lower extremities affecting athletes – especially runners.
Factors leading to shin splints include
- overtraining
- poor footwear,
- muscular imbalances at the ankle
- tight or weak triceps surae muscles
- imbalances at the thoracolumbar complex
- body mass index (BMI) above 30.
Pain occurs over the tibial bones/muscles in the lower leg.
- often described as a dull ache following exercise.
- often alleviated by resting.
- tenderness along the posteromedial edge of the tibia
Other conditions or complications:
Other aspects/conditions to consider include:
- stress fracture of the tibia
- pains in the knee extension mechanism
- Achilles tendon peritendinitis
- iliotibial tract friction syndrome
- retrocalcaneal bursitis
- discomfort in the metatarsal arch
- plantar fasciitis
- Osgood-Schlatter’s disease
- chronic calf muscle pains
** An X-ray or other investigations such as magnetic resonance imaging or a bone scan can sometimes help detect other potential causes of pain, such as a stress fracture.
What treatment may help?
- is important to avoid excessive stress.
- rest
- massage
- myofascial release techaniques
- orthotics.
- ice packs.
- medical management (eg. NSAIDS)
- Compression: A compression bandage.
- Flexibility exercises:
- Supportive shoes.
References:
Available on request.
