Shin splints
Shin splints are a common lower leg condition which relates to pain or a dull ache felt anywhere from the front of the lower leg (tibia) to the ankle. The causes of shin splints are prolonged running, typically on hard surfaces, over pronation, running up slopes, flat feet, incorrect technique, and high impact activities or wearing the wrong type of shoes.
The typical shin splint symptom occurs at the front inside of the shin bone and can arise from a number of causes such as chronic exertional compartment syndrome, muscle strains or tears, arterial or nerve entrapment, deep vein thrombosis andmedial tibialstress syndrome.
At Mint Foot Care Podiatry, our shin splints treatment begins by taking a comprehensive history, performing a biomechanical assessment and video gait analysis. The podiatrist may prescribe diagnostic imaging such as an MRI.
Based on the findings a combination of shin splints treatment options may be prescribed including:
- Footwear recommendations.
- Custom made orthotic therapy – orthotics may be prescribed to address any biomechanical factors such as over pronation.
- Stretching and strengthening exercises.
- Ultrasound therapy.
- Dry Needling.