By Helene Mitchelle, Physical Therapist Assistant
Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome, more commonly known as “Shin Splints”, accounts for 11% of running injuries in men and 17% in women due to repetitive forceful activity on hard surfaces.
Symptoms:
• Pain of the lower front portion of the leg (shin)
• Pain with running, standing, walking and performing repetitive weight-bearing activities
• Pain with pointing toes downward
• Pain with going down stairs
• Pain disappears when activity stops
Causes:
• Excessive downhill running
• Sudden increase in frequency or intensity of running
• Inappropriate or worn out footwear
• Excessive foot supination or “bowlegged”
• Sudden change in training surfaces from softer to harder
• Tight calf muscles
Treatment:
• Avoid downhill running and running on hard surfaces
• Modify footwear/orthotics
• Decrease intensity of training and incorporate active rest
• Calf stretching
• Manual therapy
• Heel raises
In rare cases, shin splints can progress into “Compartment Syndrome”. This is when swelling in the injured area puts pressure on the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels. This requires prompt medical attention to ensure that permanent damage does not occur. In addition to the symptoms described above, symptoms of compartment syndrome include:
• Decreased sensation in the affected foot
• Paleness of the skin
• Decreased or absent pulses in the foot
• Weakness of the muscles in the foot/ankle
