Patients will have a complaint of lower leg pain, either in the front of the shin, or deep within the shin. It is usually caused by running on a hard surface, especially if the patient is deconditioned to running. The pain is a deep ache that is usually worse with weight bearing, or exercise.
Cause
Shin splints are usually a tendonitis, or muscle strain.
Stress fractures may have similar presentation. With stress fractures the pain is more localized and on the tibia itself. With shin splints, X-rays are usually normal. If stress fracture is suspected, a bone scan is warranted.
There are usually several causes to shin splints:
Excessive activity / training
Shoes that do not fit properly
Treatment:
Rest. Most runners I know will not take this advice, so atleast reduce your mileage and intensity.
Ice is your best freind. Ice for 10-15 minutes after training. I always found a ziploc bag with about six ice cubes and some cold water conforms great to the front of the shins while your feet are proped up.
Stretch. Here is a good video showing how to stretch your muscles involved with shin splints.
If symptoms get worse, or if they are prolonged for more then a couple of weeks then rest is a must, and further evaluation may be needed.
Some treatments in our office would include:
Ultrasound with high voltage combination therapy. This is a deep heat therapy which will help reduce inflammation and spasm in the muscles.
Kinesiotape. Kinesio tape is made of a high elastic quality woven tape that allows it to stretch 30-40% from its resting length. It is designed to simulate the elastic properties of skin. The theory is that it lifts the skin away from the muscle fascia, facilitating blood flow and drainage of fluids by the lymph system. This effect is thought to promote healing and prevent injury to the muscle and joint. The advantage of the tape is that is can be worn for long periods of time, for days or even weeks.
Manipulation to foot and ankles. This will help restore proper foot and ankle biomechanics.