What Are Shin Splints?
Shin splints is a general term for pain along the front or inner part of the lower leg, caused by stress on the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around the shin. It most frequently affects people who increase their activity suddenly, change training surfaces, or wear inadequate footwear.
The condition commonly involves the tibia and the soft tissues attached to it. Pain can range from mild and activity related to persistent and limiting, but many people recover with simple care and activity changes.
What You Should Know About Shin Splints?
Shin splints, a term that often refers to medial tibial stress syndrome, involves inflammation and irritation where muscles attach to the shin bone or where repetitive force stresses the bone. The pain is often along the inner edge of the tibia and can feel worse during or after exercise.
Risk factors include quick increases in distance or intensity, running on hard or uneven surfaces, and wearing worn shoes. Simple measures such as rest, stretching, ice, and gradual return to activity usually help, and your orthopaedic team at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates can advise if symptoms do not improve.
What Causes Shin Splints?
- Overuse from Repetitive Impact: Repeated stress on the shin bone and surrounding tissues from activities like running or jumping leads to irritation.
- Sudden Increase in Training: A rapid jump in mileage or workout intensity can overload the lower leg before tissues adapt.
- Poor Footwear: Shoes that lack cushioning or support can increase forces through the shin during activity.
- Training on Hard or Uneven Surfaces: Hard pavement or sloped terrain increases impact and uneven loading of the shin.
- Foot Structure: Flat feet or high arches can change how the lower leg handles forces and increase strain.
- Tight Calf Muscles: Reduced flexibility in the calf raises stress on the shin during activity.
What Are the Symptoms of Shin Splints?
- Pain Along the Inner Shin
- The most common sign is a dull, aching pain on the inside edge of the tibia that appears with activity and may ease with rest.
- Tenderness to Touch
- The affected section of the shin may feel sore when pressed and can be sensitive after exercise.
- Swelling
- Mild swelling in the lower leg may be present near the painful area, especially after activity.
- Pain That Begins with Activity
- Pain often starts during exercise and can persist afterward; in more severe cases it may be present even at rest.
- Changes in Gait or Strength
- You may notice limping or a feeling of weakness in the lower leg if pain becomes more limiting.
When to Seek Orthopaedic Care for Shin Splints
- Pain That Does Not Improve with Rest: If rest and basic care for several weeks do not reduce pain, see an orthopaedic specialist for further evaluation.
- Worsening or Severe Pain: Increasing intensity of pain or inability to bear weight suggests the need for professional assessment to rule out stress fracture.
- Swelling or Warmth That Persists: Ongoing swelling, redness, or warmth may indicate a different problem that requires medical attention.
- Numbness or Weakness: Any new numbness or weakness in the lower leg or foot should be evaluated promptly.
- Pain at Rest or at Night: Pain that occurs when you are not active can be a sign of a more serious condition.
How Shin Splints Are Evaluated and Treated
Diagnosis typically begins with a history and a physical exam to find tender areas and reproduce symptoms. Imaging such as X-rays or other tests may be used if a stress fracture or other problem is suspected.
Treatment usually starts with activity modification, ice, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication if appropriate, and stretching or strengthening exercises. Gradual return to exercise, proper footwear, and attention to training surfaces help prevent recurrence. If symptoms persist, the orthopaedic specialists at Princeton Orthopaedic Associates can provide further evaluation and a personalized plan.
