Shin Splints

What are shin splints?

Shin splints is not a specific injury itself but is the general name given to pain at the front of the lower leg. The most common cause is inflammation of the periostium of the tibia (sheath surrounding the shin bone).

Traction forces occur from the muscles of the lower leg on the periostium causing shin pain and inflammation.

Symptoms

Pain and tenderness along the inside of the shin.
The pain may go after a rest period but return later during training.
Swelling may sometimes be seen but not always.
Lumps and bumps may be felt when feeling the inside of the shin bone.
A redness over the inside of the shin.

Treatment

Treatment is simply reduce pain and inflammation, identifying biomechancial problems which may have caused the injury, restoring muscles to their original condition and gradually returning to training.

Rest to allow the injury to heal.
Apply ice or cold therapy in the early stages, particularly when it is very painful.
Stretch the muscles at the back of the lower leg.
Wear shock absorbing insoles.
Maintain fitness with non weight bearing exercises such as swimming, cycling or running in water.
Apply heat and or shin and calf support after the initial acute stage and particularly before training
A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication e.g. ibuprofen. (Always consult a doctor before taking medication).
Tape the shin to take the pressure off the lower leg.