Don’t Let Shin Splints Slow You Down

Submitted By Pete Sallay M.D.
02.11.2011

Chances are you have heard someone complain of shin splints near the treadmills at your local gym or on your favorite running route. The term shin splints is the more common name for medial tibia stress syndrome, which refers to a pain and tenderness along or behind the inner edge of the tibia bone. This condition usually develops as a result of vigorous or repetitive physical activity, which causes inflammation of the muscles, tendons and periosteum (the thin layer of tissue surrounding a bone).

As I hinted at earlier, runners are often affected by shin splints, but aerobic dancers and individuals in the military also are at risk. These individuals can reduce their risk of experiencing shin splints by gradually making changes to their workout routine or increasing their workout routine overtime. Changes in an exercise regimen by running longer distances or on hills, or increasing the frequency of how much an individual exercises each week can all lead to shin splints. Individuals with flat feet also have an increased chance of suffering shin splints because they are forced to place a significant amount of stress on their lower leg muscles while exercising.

If you do suffer from shin splints the best course of treatment is rest. You will need to take several weeks off and utilize low-impact activities or conditioning as a substitute, such as stretching exercises or yoga. Depending on the severity of your shin splints, I also might recommend anti-inflammatory medication or the use of cold packs and mild compression to decrease the swelling and pain.

After resting for a few weeks, it will be okay for you to hit the gym or field again – just take it slowly. Warm up and stretch adequately before and after exercising. Gradually increase your training, and if your shins start to bother you again, stop immediately. Rest for another few days, use a cold pack and then return to your exercise schedule even more slowly.

If rest does not effectively treat you’re your symptoms, you should consult an orthopedic specialist. It’s important to keep in mind that other more serious conditions can mimic shin splints. Only a doctor can determine the cause of prolonged shin pain, some of which may include:
• A stress fracture – If shin splints do not heal overtime with rest, an MRI might be recommended to help determine if you have suffered a stress fracture of the tibia bone.

• Tendonitis – An inflamed tendon, known as tendonitis is a result of overusing a joint or not stretching properly before activity. This can cause pain very similar to what you’d feel if you suffered shin splints. A doctor may use an MRI to help diagnose the presence of tendonitis.

• Chronic exertional compartment syndrome – This is a very unusual condition that causes nerve compression and pain, most often in the front of the lower leg. It occurs due to excessive muscle swelling during activity that puts pressure on these blood vessels and nerves, and results in pain, swelling, weakness and possibly loss of muscle coordination. In many cases compartment syndrome is treated with surgery to release the fascia and allow more room in the compartment.

One of the best ways to avoid shin splints is exercising smartly. However, if you start experiencing shin pain, consult your orthopedic specialist so he can accurately assess your condition.

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