Shin Splints

Shin splints develop when tendons in your lower leg become inflamed from overuse or irritation. Joseph Hall, DPM offers comprehensive care for people suffering from shin splints. Call Dr. Joseph Hall, DPM (Foot and Ankle Specialist) at Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic in Mill Creek, WA or book an appointment online today to find relief from shin splint pain.

What are shin splints?

Shin splints are a common problem causing pain down the front of the leg from knee to ankle. The problem originates in the tibia (shin bone) tendons — elastic tissues that attach leg muscles to your bones.

The tendon where shin splint pain develops runs along the inside edge of the tibia. Pain usually extends along the tendon’s length and may be more severe in the central area.

What causes shin splints?

Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic typically sees patients with shin splints following exercise, especially running. Shin splints are most likely to affect people who exceed their current fitness limits or those who run on hard surfaces, especially when wearing unsuitable footwear.

The problem arises from shock waves traveling up your leg as each foot hits the ground. If your running shoes don’t absorb this shock, it travels into the leg, irritating the tendon. The result is inflammation and pain.

Other activities can also cause shin splints, particularly if you’re new to them or push yourself too hard. Some people develop shin splints because they have flat feet (fallen arches) or frequently use unsuitable footwear.

How are shin splints treated?

You can manage shin splints at home by resting, applying ice packs to the inflamed areas, and doing gentle stretches. However, if the pain doesn’t go away, visit Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic for an evaluation. Ignoring shin splints can cause more severe tendon damage (tendonitis) and could lead to tearing.

Dr. Hall might recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation. It’s also vital to avoid activities that worsen your shin splints. It is also recommended to not exercise vigorously for at least two weeks after the pain stops.

Some other treatments include: 

*Tapings

*Custom 3-D printed prescription orthotics

*Physical Therapy

How do I prevent shin splints?

You can avoid shin splints by observing the following precautions:

Exercising appropriately

Don’t push yourself too hard or go beyond your fitness level when exercising. Ensure you get advice from fitness experts on warming up and building resilience in your tendons. Avoid hard, unforgiving surfaces like roads and uneven terrain.

Replacing footwear

Choose shoes and sneakers that support your feet and provide sufficient cushioning to reduce shock. You might benefit from orthotics — insoles that correct abnormal weight distribution and provide additional cushioning.

Call Mill Creek Foot & Ankle Clinic for advice on shin splints, or use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation.