Shin splints, also known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), is a pain that occurs in the lower leg below the knee on the front outside part of the leg or the inside of the leg. They usually occur in runners, dancers, tennis players, etc due to overuse.

Causes

• Overuse of muscles of the lower leg causing irritation and swelling.
• Flat feet, or overpronation that causes the arch of the foot to collapse increasing stress on the muscles of the lower leg.
• Stress fractures that are tiny breaks in the lower leg bones.
• When the muscles of the hips and core are unstable and weak.
• Poor lumbar spine function.

Treatment

• Giving your body time to rest.
• Stretching and icing the area daily until the pain subsides.
• Using custom made orthotics to decrease overpronation and reduce stress on the anterior leg muscles.
• Anti-inflammatory medication such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as ibuprofen to help reduce pain and swelling.
• Using a sleeve, brace, or taping to help reduce inflammation.
• In severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

Shin splints can usually heal on their own. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months depending on the severity of the injury.  It is important not to rush back to any sport until the area is fully healed. If you rush back before the injury is healed it can lead to a permanent issue.

For more information on shin splints, or to book an assessment, contact Ontario Foot & Orthotics at (905)878-6479 or visit us online at http://www.ontariofoot.ca