What is it?
What causes it?
Shin splints (known medically as medial tibial stress syndrome) are an injury causing leg pain when exercising [1].
Shin splints usually occur in people who are particularly active, such as runners. They frequently occur in people with low arched feet, which affects foot alignment and increases stress on the leg [1].
What are the symptoms?
You will feel pain along the inside of the lower half of your shin, particularly when you start or end a run. Your shin might become swollen [1].
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What podiatry treatments are available?
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Biomechanical assessment and management – we can determine if your shin splints are a result of your foot function, and prescribe insoles customised specifically for your feet to target this problem, improving foot positioning and therefore reducing the stress in your legs [2]. Visit our clinic in Bradford for a full assessment and treatment plan.
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Footwear assessment and advice – your footwear will be professionally assessed based on the results of the biomechanical tests we carry out, and any required advice will be given.
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Stretching exercises – our podiatrist will prescribe exercises to reduce tightness in your calves. This will improve the flexibility in your ankle joints, which will help absorb shock when walking and running, and reduce shin splint pain [2].
References
1. Brukner P, Khan K (2001) Shin pain. In Brukner P, Khan K (eds.): Clinical Sports Medicine, McGraw-Hill, Sydney, pp.518.
2. Kirby, K. (2010) Current concepts in treating medial tibial stress syndrome. Podiatry Today, 23 (4).