Shin Splints

Medial tibial stress syndrome, also known as shin splints, is one of the most common causes of exercise induced leg pain. This condition is most common among runners, military personnel and athletes that do a lot of jumping.

Shin splints are classified by tibial pain or discomfort initiated by repetitive exercise or excessive force on the foot flexors. It is important that stress fractures, especially among the military community, be excluded before diagnosis can be complete.

 A major risk factor for shin splints is overpronation of the foot during the gait cycle and being female. Risk factors of lesser evidence include increased hip mobility, higher BMI (being overweight), previous history of shin splints and having leaner calf girth.

Treatment of shin splints focus on analysis of the lower limb and correction of biomechanical issues, which can be done with orthotics and chiropractic care. Anti-inflammatory care, rest, soft tissue therapy and rehabilitative exercises are all treatment options available for this condition.

A lot of people are interested in prevention of shin splints, since their training regimen is either mandatory or they refuse to give in to the condition. Stretching exercises, heel pads, orthotics, and graduated fitness programs have all been suggested, while a shock-absorbing inlay orthotic is the only intervention to have shown quantifiable results.