Shin splints are a runner’s worst enemy. You set out for a run, first few strides feeling good, and then less than a kilometer in it hits. Your shins are on fire. It’s got to be one of the worst feelings out there!
Thankfully you aren’t alone, and there is hope! Let our team of podiatrists break down the symptoms, the causes, why they hurt so much, and most importantly how you can get back to Moving Free again.
1. What are shin splints?
Medial tibial stress syndrome more commonly known as shin splints is a painful condition that develops due to repeated stress along the shin bone.
2. What are the symptoms?
The most common symptom of shin splints is pain along the inner border of your shin bone. You might also notice mild swelling in the area. Initially symptoms may reduce with rest but as the injury progresses pain may persist longer.
3. Why is it painful?
Pain develops due to repetitive stress & inflammation where muscles & tendons pull on your shin bone.
4. Contributing factors?
Shin splints are commonly associated with increased training load & foot biomechanics. Running too far, too quickly & too soon does not allow sufficient time for conditioning. Overpronation can also cause excess loading on affected structures increasing pain.
5. What is the treatment?
Gradually progressing your training regime to allow your body to adapt to its demands is vital. Correcting poor biomechanics with an orthotic also helps to alleviate excess pressure that is contributing to your pain.
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