SHIN SPLINTS

Runners are commonly at risk from shin splints, characterised by a pain around the shinbone area that is often triggered by a particular activity.

Symptoms

Pain or discomfort along the shinbone in the lower leg is the defining symptom, and can be accompanied by tenderness in the area. A swelling may arise around the injured shin. Your pain might initially decrease or desist when you stop training but can regularly become chronic, with the pain at its worst the morning after exercise.

Causes

An excess of pressure on the shinbone and the surrounding muscles can cause shin splints. Running on uneven surfaces or downhill can contribute to the stress on your shins, as can partaking in sports with an element of abrupt ceasing only to commence again with immediate great force on the legs, such as tennis, in which you stand still many times per game but must dash and jump when necessary. Using inadequate footwear that is either tattered or inappropriate to the activity can put you at risk. Other common causes include overpronation of the foot, typified by irregular arches, which can result in a detrimental running technique, and overuse: beginning a strenuous training program too quickly or exercising with fatigued muscles.

Self-Treatment

It is important to rest the area, stopping all activities that are likely to aggravate the injury or cause pain or soreness of any kind until the condition has healed. Otherwise your symptoms may increase and lead to a stress fracture. To remain in training you can attempt low-impact activities like cycling and swimming. Appropriately icing the area roughly three times per day for the first week can help to reduce pain and swelling. You may find it beneficial to elevate the injured shin in order to further lessen inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medication such as ibuprofen can assist in your recovery but you should always first consult a doctor.

Medical Attention

Most forms of shin splints heal without professional help, but some are more serious and may require medical attention. Consult a medical professional if the above self-care measures do not diminish the pain, and especially if the pain worsens or your shin feels very hot. The doctor will diagnose using a physical exam and might in some cases take an x-ray to rule out other conditions. They may tape the shin in order to decrease pressure on the surrounding muscle connections, and recommend massage or other physical therapy to complement your self-treatment.

It is also crucial to note that shin pain resulting from an accident is often unrelated to shin splints and requires immediate attention from a doctor.

Prevention

When the injury has healed, commence training gradually, possibly altering your regime to include more low-impact activities to reduce stress on the shins. Wearing the correct shoes is essential; a doctor can assess whether your feet require specialist footwear or supports, and runners should replace their shoes every few hundred miles. Always stretch and strengthen your muscles before exercising, building bulk that will help to protect your shinbones and surrounding tissues. Add periods of rest to your training program.

For more details please contact:

Dr. Prateek Gupta (Senior Surgeon)

Arthroscopy Surgery Clinic

C2/5 Safdarjung Development Area (SDA),

Aurobindo Marg, New Delhi - 110016

INDIA

Telephones: +91 9810852876, +91 11 26517776

24 x 7 Helpline & Appointment: +91 9810633876

Email: sportsmedicinedelhi@yahoo.com,

sportsmedicineclinics@gmail.com

Website:http://www.sportsmedicineclinicdelhi.com/arthroscopy.htm,

http://www.sportsmedicineclinicdelhi.com,