Shin Splints

About your injury

'Shin Splints' is a term that causes unrest amongst practitioners because it is not a diagnosis in itself but a description of pain and discomfort in the leg usually caused by repetitive activity on hard surfaces. The injury is more accurately called medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS).

How did it happen?

These injuries are most common in actvities that include running long distances, repetitive jumping, impact on hard surfaces or inadequate footwear. As a result, runners, dancers, gymnasts, football, basketball and volleyball players are most at risk. The injury usually effects people that do too much too soon and have under-prepared legs for the relentless pounding of running or jumping exercises. In our experience, people that also suddenly change from running on flat surfaces to hilly surfaces also tend to suffer from this type of injury.

What are the symptoms?

Typical symptoms include aching, throbbing or tenderness on the inside, lower portion of your shin as you begin your workout. The discomfort eases as you begin to run and the muscles warm up. The shin will also feel sore after your exercise. As the injury worsens, it takes longer and longer for the aching to subside when starting your workout.

What should I do?

• Run on softer surfaces
• Get footwear that correct over-pronation
• Reduce your activity levels by 50%
• Ice the inside shin using a bag of frozen peas or ice pack wrapped in a tea towel. Do this for 10 minutes every hour
• Take some anti-inflammatory medication such as Nurofen
• Strengthen the muscles in your leg
• Consult an Osteopath for some physical therapy and advice on strengthening exercises

Contact Us

email jamie@theosteopath.net if you would like to make an appointment.