What are Shin Splints?
- Shin Splints result from muscular overuse of the Tibialis Anterior and Tibialis Posterior muscles, which are attached to the Tibia bone (shin bone).
- It often displays as sharp pain down the front of the leg.
Causes of Shin Splints?
- Overused muscles and repeated pounding on hard surfaces, such as concrete
- Due to running, jumping, basketball, tennis or improper shoes
- Inflammation of the Periosteum: Connective tissue over your bones.
- Overpronation: Feet roll inward when running/walking.
- Working out too hard too fast: Fatigues the muscles and puts greater pressure on the Tibia.
- Stress Fracture
Symptoms of Shin Splints?
- Pain and swelling on your Shin (front part of the lower leg)
- Tenderness and pain upon touch/palpation of shin
- Soreness in your shin at the start of your workout
- Can lead to severe Shin pain by the end of your workout if untreated
Treatment for Shin Splints?
- Avoid physical stressors/activities that cause pain
- Start running slowly: Gradually build up to the intended distance and pace.
- Custom Foot Orthotic for Shin Splints: Help stabilize the foot and ankle, taking the stress off the lower leg and decrease pressure on the Tibial bone
- Massage Treatment for Shin Splints: Active stretching and Trigger Point Release Therapy to decrease muscular hypertonicity (tightness in the muscles)
- Ice Massage to Anterior Tibial bone
For custom foot orthotic for shin splints, or for more info on shin splints, visit Backs in Action Wellness Centre in East Vancouver. And to book an appointment with our Massage Therapist, call 604-876-9977.
