Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, is a common overuse injury that causes pain in the front part of your lower legs. This condition is often seen in athletes, especially runners, dancers, and military recruits.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of shin splints is lower leg pain, ranging from mild to severe. Other symptoms include:
Tenderness along the inner side of your shinbone
Swelling in your lower leg
Continuous pain that may lead to fracture
In severe cases, redness may be seen on the inside of the lower leg
Causes
Shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach your muscles to the bone. This frequent, repetitive pressure from running and jumping can cause your shin bone to become inflamed (swollen or irritated) and weak. When the bone doesn’t have time to heal, the damage can worsen and cause severe pain.
Risk factors
Certain groups have a higher risk of developing shin splints, including:
Runners, especially those who run on uneven surfaces or suddenly increase their running program
Athletes who play high-impact sports that put stress on their legs
Dancers
People who have flat feet, high arches or very rigid arches
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of shin splints involves a physical examination and imaging tests if needed. The doctor may ask questions about your physical activities, and feel your leg to check for tenderness and pain. An X-ray of the leg may be taken to rule out other issues such as stress fractures which give the same symptoms.
Treatment
Shin splints can usually be treated at home with self-care measures. These include:
Getting adequate rest
Avoiding activities which cause pain and swelling
Using the right kind of footwear
Applying ice packs for 20 minutes several times a day
Performing stretching exercise
In some cases, over-the-counter pain relievers like Ibuprofen and Naproxen may be used.
Prevention
To help prevent shin splints, consider the following:
Increase the intensity and duration of activity slowly
