Shin Splints
Shin Splints Causes
Overloading the shinbone and the connective tissues that attach the muscles to the bone cause shin splints. Specific athletic activities such as running downhill, on a slanted or tilted surface, and in worn-out footwea; engaging in sports with frequent starts and stops; training too hard, too fast, or for too long can cause shin splints.
Shin Splints Definition
Shin splints is a form of running-related injuries. It is also known as medial tibial stress syndrome.
Shin Splints Diagnosis
Doctors usually diagnose shin splints based on the patient's medical history and results of a physical exam. X-rays or other imaging studies may be conducted to help doctors rule out other conditions, such as a tiny cracks in a bone often caused by overuse.
Shin Splints Symptoms and Signs
Affected individuals experience tenderness, soreness, or pain along the inner part of the lower leg, and mild swelling.
Shin Splints Treatment
Shin splints are usually treated with self-care measures such as rest, placing ice on the affected area, to compressing the area with an elastic bandage or compression sleeve, taking an over-the-counter pain reliever, wearing proper shoes, and using arch supports to cushion and disperse stress on the shinbones.