What Are Shin Splints and How Can I Prevent Them?

Shin Splints refers to pain you feel along your shin bone, or your tibia. This pain is common in athletes, runners and dancers. The official name for shin splints is “Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome”. Shin Splints occurs when your muscles, tendons or tissue surrounding your tibia become inflamed. This pain often occurs in active people who change or intensify their exercise routine, causing the muscle to become overworked.

One key way to work on recovery on this muscle is to rest, ice and take pain relievers such as Ibuprofen or Advil.

How can you prevent shin splints?

Avoid overextending yourself whether it be in your workout, your run or whatever exercise you may be working on. Overexerting yourself can cause the muscles to become more fatigued and lead to improper form or more pain.

Another factor that could be contributing to your pain is the type of shoe you are using during exercise, and the state it is in. Make sure you are replacing your shoes every 350 to 500 miles as a runner, or every 6 months for other exercise. This will ensure your feet are well supported for any type of activity and protect your legs from further damage. Arch supports can also help your legs recover quicker from impact.

Another way to avoid shin splints is to work through an active recovery. Activities such as swimming, walking, biking, or yoga will help your muscles work through any inflamation you may be experiencing.

If you are experiencing shin splints or any other leg ailments, call us at 262-790-5775 to be given a dedicated physical therapist. One of our experienced PTs will help you create an action plan to work through your pain. Call us or schedule an appointment online here.