Shin Splints
"Shin splints" - also called tibial stress syndrome is a general term for a condition caused by inflammation to the anterior or posterior muscles and tendons in the lower leg or adjacent soft tissue along the shin bone (tibia).
Shin splints are very common and cause of 13% of all running injuries. Runners might get them after ramping up their workout intensity, or changing the surface they run on -- like shifting from a dirt path to asphalt.
Shin splints cause dull, aching pain in the front of the lower leg. Depending on the exact cause, the pain may be located along either side of the shinbone or in the muscles. The area may be painful to the touch. Swollen muscles can sometimes irritate the nerves in the feet, causing them to feel weak or numb.
Although shin splints may be caused by different problems, treatment is usually the same: Rest your body so the underlying issue heals. Here are some other things to try:
Shin splints are very common and cause of 13% of all running injuries. Runners might get them after ramping up their workout intensity, or changing the surface they run on -- like shifting from a dirt path to asphalt.
Shin splints cause dull, aching pain in the front of the lower leg. Depending on the exact cause, the pain may be located along either side of the shinbone or in the muscles. The area may be painful to the touch. Swollen muscles can sometimes irritate the nerves in the feet, causing them to feel weak or numb.
Although shin splints may be caused by different problems, treatment is usually the same: Rest your body so the underlying issue heals. Here are some other things to try:
- Reduce the pain and swelling by applying an ice pack for 20-30 minutes every three to four hours for two to three days, or until the pain is gone.
- Anti-inflammatory painkillers will help with pain and swelling.
- Arch supports for your shoes will help as they can be custom-made or bought off the
- Range of motion exercises, if your doctor recommends them.
- Neoprene sleeve to support and warm the leg.
- Physical therapy to strengthen the muscles in your shins.