Do you suffer from painful shins?
You must read what our podiatrists have to say…
Description:
The condition known as ‘shin-splints’ , or otherwise known as ‘Medial
Tibial Stress Syndrome’ involves an over-use scenario of the associated
muscular group. Two variations of shin-splints are possible: ‘anterior
shin-splints’ which involves the Tibialis anterior muscle at the front
of the leg, as well as ‘posterior shin-splints’ which involves
the Tibialis posterior muscle at the inner and back part of the leg.
Both of these muscles function in response to the ‘rolling-in’ of the foot whilst we are walking. When the foot is trying to clear the ground, these muscles fire to lift the whole foot up. If a person is not walking at a mechanically efficient level and the arch is rolling-in and flattening too rapidly, then these muscles may be called upon to work harder than normal. As a result, fatigue sets in, leading to inefficient force production. Micro-tearing of the soft tissue and therefore an inflammatory reaction in the muscles then results. The muscle is also wrapped in a fascial covering which restricts the swelling associated with the inflammatory response, creating a ‘choking-off’ of the blood supply to the involved muscles.
Incidence:
The scenario that typically brings on shin-splints is a sedentary individual that suddenly starts running or walking long distances. Repetitive stress with increased intensity and duration of activity quickly leads to shin splints because the tendons and muscles are unable to absorb the impact of the shock force as they become fatigued. The impact is made worse by running on uneven terrain, uphill, downhill.
Causes and contributing factors:
- Sudden overuse or increase in activity
- Underlying poor foot mechanics – excessive pronation
- Weak muscles from lack of activity
- Recent shoe-wear change or improper footwear
- Tight calf musculature
Symptoms:
The symptoms associated with shin splints may vary. Pain is usually noted over the inside lower half of the shin bone. In some cases swelling and redness over the inside of the shin may also be present. Typically, the pain comes on at the start of exercise and often eases as the session continues, only to return after activity and may be worse the next morning. Lumps and bumps may also be felt along the inside of the shin bone.
Treatment:
- Control inflammation in the acute phase: rest/stop activity that initiated the damage, ice, anti-inflammatory medication, Ultrasound therapy
- Stretching and strengthening
- Massage
- Acupuncture/dry needling
- Strapping and orthotics to control poor foot mechanics
- Change shoe-wear
Shin Pain Treatment in Perth is now available.
Contact Central City Podiatry
today on 9221 4998
Our location :
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Perth City Station - 9221 4998
Additional useful health services :
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Central City Physiotherapy - 9421 1733
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Perth Chiropractic - 9221 4527
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Pilates