What is it?
Shin splints is a widely used term to describe a number of different conditions that cause pain in the lower leg region.
It most commonly refers to a condition known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS).
Other conditions it can refer to are compartment syndrome and stress fractures.
MTSS is chronic stress on the regions of the shin bone where the muscles attach, causing microtrauma and subsequent inflammation on the inside aspect of the shin bone.
What do I look for?
- The most common site of pain will be at the inner part of the shin bone and often only felt with activity
- Pain may also be in the outer side of the shin bone, in the shin and/or calf muscles
- Numbness in the foot region with activity
- Gradual onset over a period of time
What causes it?
- Poor foot mechanics or change of footwear
- Muscle tightness in the calf muscles
- Poor lower limb mechanics and pelvic stability
- Rapid changes in training routines or surface
When do you see someone for help?
Your Lifecare practitioner will be able to provide an accurate diagnosis and an appropriate management plan. Often this problem can require a sports medicine doctor, physiotherapist, and/or podiatrist to assist.
For more information see your local Lifecare practitioner. Click here to find your closest Lifecare clinic.
