Shin splints are a common overuse injury that occurs when the muscles and bones in your lower leg become strained and irritated. Athletes (especially runners), dancers, members of the military, and individuals with osteoporosis, flat feet, and high or very rigid arches are at a higher risk of developing shin splints.
If you have shin splints, you may notice tenderness, soreness, or pain along the inner side of your shinbone and mild swelling in your lower leg. Initially, the pain may subside when you stop exercising. However, the pain can be continuous and might progress to a stress reaction or stress fracture, so it is best to take it easy while they heal.
Shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on the shinbone and the connective tissue that attaches the muscles to the bone.
Healthcare providers diagnose shin splints based on your medical history and by performing a physical exam. They will observe how you walk and examine your lower leg, ankle, and foot.
In some cases, they may also perform an X-ray or other imaging tests that can help identify other possible causes for your pain, such as a stress fracture.
Shin splints can be treated with simple self-care steps that include:
- Rest
- Ice
- Taking an over-the-counter pain reliever
- Supplements
- Shin splint stretches
- Slow increases in activity levels
- Wearing supportive shoes and shoe inserts
- Resting in between activities to allow your bones and muscles time to heal
- Physical therapy
There are several ways to help avoid shin splints, including:
- Analyzing your movement
- Avoiding overdoing high-impact activities
- Choosing the right shoes
- Considering arch support
- Considering shock-absorbing insoles
- Lessening the impact on your shins
- Adding strength training to your workout
If you experience shin splints often, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.
All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.