What is Shin Splints?
“Shin splints” is a colloquial or catch all term used to describe chronic shin pain. It is often associated with exercise and in particular running. However, it’s essential to understand that shin splints are not a specific diagnosis; instead, they represent a broad category of lower leg pain associated with physical activity. The evidence strongly suggests that shin pain can have various causes, reflecting the complexity of lower leg anatomy and biomechanics.
Why do I have it?
Pain can result from multiple factors, and it’s crucial to recognise that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all explanation for this condition. To better understand your shin pain, it’s beneficial to describe it in terms of its location and underlying cause, such as:
- Lower Medial Tibial Pain: This may be due to periostitis or an inflammation of the connective tissue covering the shinbone.
- Upper Lateral Tibial Pain: Elevated compartment pressure in the lateral compartment of the leg could cause this type of pain.
- Biomechanical Issues: Abnormalities in your walking or running mechanics, like overpronation, can contribute to shin discomfort.
- Training Errors: Rapidly increasing the intensity or duration of your workouts without proper conditioning can strain the lower leg.
- Inadequate Footwear: It has been suggested that Ill-fitting or worn-out shoes without proper support can exacerbate the issue. However the evidence to support this is somewhat lacking and we advise patients to be careful when looking at orthotics or inserts. We suggest a more organic approach with strengthening the area being the focus but your physio will discuss this with you.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosing shin splints involves a comprehensive evaluation that considers the location and potential causes of your pain. It’s essential to work closely with a healthcare professional who can provide a precise diagnosis. Diagnosis may include:
- Physical Examination: Your physiotherapist will assess the location, type and frequency of your pain during physical activity and at rest. Shin splint pain can oftrn be fine during an activity and painful afterwards.
- Medical History: A detailed discussion of your activity levels, footwear, and training routines can offer valuable insights.
- Imaging: In some cases, imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs may be necessary to rule out other potential causes.
What can I expect?
The prognosis for shin splints varies depending on the underlying cause and the individual. It’s important to note that persistent symptoms and repeat occurrences are not uncommon, especially if you continue with the same activity. Early intervention can lead to better outcomes. The duration of symptoms can range from weeks to years, depending on various factors.
How can I manage it?
Managing shin splints involves a tailored approach based on the specific location and cause of your pain. General strategies for managing shin splints include:
- Rest: Give your legs time to heal by avoiding activities that worsen your symptoms.
- Professional Evaluation: Consult a healthcare provider or physiotherapist for a comprehensive assessment and personalised treatment plan.
- Gradual Return: When your symptoms improve, slowly reintroduce physical activity, ensuring you’re using proper techniques.
- Strengthening: Incorporate strengthening exercises into your routine as advised by a healthcare professional.
- Biomechanical Assessment: If you have tried everything else then considering a biomechanical assessment to identify any issues in your walking or running mechanics might also help. Check with your physiotherapist as we may be able to provide video analysis.
- Proper Footwear? Here at The Physiotherapists, we’re committed to dispelling out of date information. We endeavour to work with what is known as evidence based practice. There is currently very little substantiated evidence that footwear plays a major part in shin splints. We are aware of people changing their footwear and it making some short term difference so it may help to alleviate some of the pain. An individually tailored rehabilitation programme should be undertaken alongside this.
What should i do next?
‘Shin splints’ is a bit of a catch all phrase thrown about to describe a number of symptoms. A comprehenisive diagnosis from a qualified professional is the first step to understand your specific situation. Once a diagnosis has been reached then a treatment plan can be created. Book an assessment with one of our team of physiotherapists today.
Disclaimer: This guide is not a specific medical diagnosis but rather a descriptive over view of some of the symptoms for lower leg pain during physical activity. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a precise diagnosis and an individualised treatment plan. Shin splint pain can have various causes, and proper evaluation is necessary to determine the most appropriate management strategy for your specific condition.