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