Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome (MTSS), are a relatively common condition, especially among athletes and those who engage in high-impact sports or exercise. While shin splints can be a painful condition that can take several months to fully heal, there are some things you can do to help manage symptoms and prevent it from happening again.
What Causes Shin Splints?
Shin splints occur when the muscles, tendons or soft tissue surrounding the shin bone become inflamed. This most frequently occurs due to repetitive high-impact exercise involving the lower legs, such as running, dancing or doing gymnastics.
Some factors that may put you at a greater risk for developing shin splints are:
- Having flat feet.
- Working out on hard surfaces, such as asphalt.
- Not wearing proper footwear during exercise.
- Improper running mechanics, such as overpronation.
How Are Shin Splints Treated?
Rest is the most effective treatment option for shin splints. If, however, your condition doesn’t improve with 2 to 4 weeks of rest from high-impact exercises, it could be something other than shin splints and should be evaluated by a doctor.
In the meantime, you can manage symptoms by:
- Applying a cold compress to your shins.
- Gently stretch your lower legs and ankles.
- Wear properly-fitting shoes that are not too worn out to provide support.
- Use arch supports or custom insoles.
How to Prevent Shin Splints
Shin splints can very often be prevented by:
- Gradually increasing the intensity or duration of workouts.
- Warming up and cooling down before and after exercise.
- Alternating high-impact and low-impact exercise days.
- Wearing properly-fitting shoes.
- Consider getting custom insoles.
If you have a history of struggling with pain from shin splints, it might be time to talk to a doctor. Our experienced podiatrists would be happy to help you develop a treatment plan that’s right for you. Call our Gaithersburg office at 301-948-2995 or request an appointment online.
