Shin splints is caused by excessive stress on the shin bone and surrounding muscles.
Causes and treatment of shin splints
‘Shin Splints’ or Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS) is a condition whereby excessive stress on the shin bone and surrounding muscles causes aching or tired legs, or sharp leg pain that can be so severe it stops you from performing activities such as running. The symptoms of shin splints are similar to that of Compartment Syndrome, which requires emergency treatment.
If left untreated, ‘shin splints’ can progress to stress fractures of the shin bone. This is why it is essential that treatment is sought in a timely manner.
What causes shin splints?
There are many causes of ‘shin splints’ and it is essential that you are assessed properly. Training intensity and frequency are important factors in the initial development of ‘shin splints’ but foot function, impact forces and poor footwear choices can all be contributing factors to its progression and non-healing. At Performance Podiatry we take a detailed history and provide a physical assessment to identify muscle overuse due to abnormal foot biomechanics and poor running technique. Once you are individually assessed, we can help to explain why you have shin splints.
Treatment of shin splints
Your treatment will depend on the diagnosis and cause of your symptoms. Our podiatrists often recommend short-term rest or adapting your training program when rest is not possible. We will address footwear issues and may recommend foot orthotics to address biomechanical problems. We also use shockwave therapy to promote healing and offer walking and running retraining to reduce load on your shins. Sometimes an integrated treatment approach with other health professionals such as physiotherapy is required.
Make a podiatrist appointment for shin splints treatment.
Our highly qualified and experienced podiatrists are experts in biomechanics and it’s our philosophy that the finest foot care requires an entirely bespoke experience. That’s why we are dedicated to providing entirely tailor-made diagnosis and treatment services that are the best in Australia.
Our dynamic practice has a holistic approach to resolving foot complaints.
From assessment and diagnosis to extraordinary treatment, every step of your journey with us will deliver you the ultimate podiatric experience, resulting in healthier and happier feet.
Book a consultation with our podiatrists in Sydney (Macquarie St), Darlinghurst and Randwick to discuss your condition and we’ll get you pain-free and back to full function as smoothly and quickly as possible, so you can return to the activities and life you love.
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