Shin Splints - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

A condition characterised by acute pain and tenderness over the front of the shin during running.

Cause
Inflammation of the sheath (periosteum) surrounding the Tibia(large shin bone), due to the muscles of the lower leg exerting a force on the periosteum causing inflammation and pain.

This can be as a result of

• Poor muscle control of the leg and foot whilst running

• Changing from one surface to another with different sports

• Running on hard surfaces

• Incorrect footwear 

Symptoms

• Pain over the front and inside surface of the shin when running and at later stages when walking.

Treatment

• Physiotherapy to advise on

• Rest

• Muscle re-education, change of running style

• Change of footwear

• Shock absorber insoles for running shoes to reduce impact

• Massage and ultrasound to reduce inflammation.