Shin Splints
Description:
Shin Splints are pain in the front of the lower leg along the “shin bone” and slightly to the outside in the muscle group. They vary in severity from a dull ache to severe pain. Their origin can also vary from a “crack” or stress fracture in the bone to a slight strain or separation of the muscle attachment. They are an overuse syndrome that progresses into an injury most commonly from jogging or running with improper shoe gear and hard or variable surfaces (asphalt, cement, grass, dirt). All injuries especially ones where a fracture is suspected need to be evaluated by a physician with standard x-rays taken or other advanced testing.
This condition is associated with other foot and ankle conditions such as:
Treatment: Conservative Care:
| Weight bearing: | Stress fractures and muscle strains need protection from motion and ground forces. Keeping pressure off the area is the best way to minimize a more serious situation like separation of the fracture. Crutches, walkers, wheel chairs and strollers are helpful. |
| Rest: | Crutches and non-weight bearing on the affected leg for 1 to 3 weeks is the best care for this kind of overuse syndrome or injury, but a simple decrease in activities may relieve symptoms. Avoid bare feet and shoes without support (sandals, flip-flops, house shoes, etc.). |
| Stretching: | Static stretching at the ankle upward and downward holding those positions for 10 seconds each for 3 sets every day will help speed recovery and reoccurrence. |
| Medication: | Anti-inflammatory medication (Eg. Ibuprofen, Naprosyn) aspirin products, and Acetaminophen can help with the chronic pain, but are not much help with the acute pain. |
| Arch Support: | Temporary arch supports or supportive athletic shoes will support the foot and ankle in a more inverted position. This will put less strain on the injured area and decrease the incidence of reinjury when returning to activities or exercise. Custom molded orthotics are the best solution for immediate and long term treatment. |
| P.T.: | Examples of physical therapy include massage, cold therapy, contrast baths, stretching, ultrasound, and electric stimulation. |
Surgical Options:
No surgery is required for this condition, but under severe rest and activity pain a pressure analysis of the leg muscle group may reveal a serious problem called “Compartment Syndrome”. This is described as severe pain, with paresthesias (tingling), temporary lack of blood supply, and possible muscle damage or even paralysis. The procedure of choice if simple rest does not stop these symptoms is a surgical release of the pressure.
