Shin Splints

Shin splints are a common injury, particularly among runners and athletes in other sports. This injury occurs due to overuse of the shinbone and the surrounding muscles and tendons. Pain and discomfort typically focus along the inner edge of the shin. While the pain initially appears only during or after physical activity, it can become chronic over time, making rest less effective in providing relief. This is a slow-healing injury, which makes prevention and a gradual increase in training intensity crucial.

What Symptoms Do Shin Splints Cause?

Shin splints often present as a dull or sharp pain along the inner side of the shinbone. Initially, the pain may only occur after physical activity, but over time, it can appear at the start of exercise, temporarily ease during warm-up, and then intensify after the activity. In more severe cases, the pain may persist even at rest. In addition to pain, stiffness and mild swelling in the lower leg can occur. Without proper treatment, these symptoms can develop into a stress fracture, where small cracks form in the bone.

What Causes Shin Splints?

Shin splints are typically caused by overuse, resulting from repetitive stress on the shinbone and surrounding muscles. This is common among runners, especially when training intensity is suddenly increased or when running on hard, uneven surfaces. Other risk factors include overpronation, where the foot tilts inward too much, and flat feet, which put additional pressure on the shinbone. Improper footwear or poor running technique can further increase the likelihood of developing shin splints. Wearing the right insoles and gradually increasing training intensity can help prevent these issues.

What is our treatment for shin splints?

Shin splints often result from excessive lower leg rotation. We analyze foot movement during walking and correct misalignment with an insole if needed. Providing better foot support reduces leg rotation and associated pain.

Appropriate advice?

Make an appointment with our podiatrist or podotherapist, or feel free to give us a call:

070 – 365 09 00

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070 - 365 09 00