Understanding and Treating Shin Splints

What Are Shin Splints?

• Medically known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome

• Pain along inner shin bone (tibia)

• Occurs during running and exercise

• Caused by muscle-bone microtrauma

• Can lead to stress fractures if untreated

Common Risk Factors

• High-impact sports participation:

  • Running

  • Football

  • Volleyball

• Sudden increase in exercise volume

• Inappropriate footwear

• Biomechanical issues

• Lower limb weakness

Treatment Approach

Multi-Directional Strategy

• Exercise load modification

• Strength training programs

• Inflammation management

• Area offloading techniques

Professional Interventions

• Laser therapy benefits:

  • Reduces inflammation

  • Targets trigger points

  • Treats calf muscle issues

• Custom orthotics

• Supportive strapping

• Exercise physiology assessment

Prevention Tips

• Gradual activity increase

• Proper footwear selection

• Regular strength training

• Early intervention

• Professional assessment