Home 9 Shin Splints

Shin Splints

Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a common condition that causes pain and discomfort along the shin bone (tibia), which is the large bone in the front of the lower leg. Shin splints often occur in athletes or individuals who engage in repetitive weight-bearing activities, such as running or jumping.

Causes Of Shin Splints:

The exact cause of shin splints is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to repetitive stress on the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue of the lower leg. Some common factors that may contribute to the development of shin splints include:

  1. Overuse or increased activity: Rapidly increasing the frequency, duration, or intensity of physical activity, such as running or jumping, can put excessive strain on the muscles and bones of the lower leg, leading to shin splints.
  2. Poor footwear or biomechanics: Wearing shoes that do not provide adequate support or do not fit properly, or having abnormal foot mechanics, such as overpronation (inward rolling of the foot), can increase the risk of developing shin splints.
  3. Hard or uneven surfaces: Running or jumping on hard surfaces, such as concrete or asphalt, or on uneven terrain can increase the impact on the lower leg, potentially leading to shin splints.

Symptoms Of Shin Splints:

The most common symptom of shin splints is pain and tenderness along the inner part of the shin bone, which may be described as a dull ache or soreness. Other common symptoms may include:

  • Pain that worsens with activity, especially during weight-bearing activities like running or jumping, and improves with rest.
  • Swelling or inflammation along the shin bone.
  • Pain upon touch or palpation of the affected area.

Akshar Physical Treatment For Shin Splints:

Akshar Physical Treatment for shin splints typically involves a combination of rest, pain management, and addressing contributing factors. Some common treatment approaches include:

  1. Rest: Reducing or avoiding activities that exacerbate the pain, such as running or jumping, to allow the affected tissues to heal.
  2. Ice: Applying ice or cold packs to the affected area to help reduce pain and inflammation.
  3. Pain medications: Over-the-counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), may be used to help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
  4. Proper footwear: Wearing shoes that provide good support and cushioning, and replacing worn-out shoes, can help reduce the impact on the lower leg and prevent a recurrence.
  5. Biomechanical assessment: Evaluating and addressing any abnormal foot mechanics or gait abnormalities through orthotics, shoe modifications, or physical therapy may help prevent shin splints from recurring.
  6. Gradual return to activity: Gradually easing back into activities and avoiding sudden increases in training intensity can help prevent overuse and reduce the risk of shin splints.

In some cases, more advanced treatment may be needed, such as physical therapy, sports massage, or other modalities to address muscle imbalances, promote healing, and prevent recurrence. It’s important to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation, diagnosis, and individualized treatment plans for shin splints. Early intervention and proper management can help prevent chronic or recurrent shin splints and promote a full recovery.