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Shin Splints

Written by: Scott Bentson, DC, MS

What are Shin Splints?

“Shin Splints” is commonly used as a general term to describe pain in the lower leg. That being said, there are several causes of shin pain (stress fractures, compartment syndrome) that may not be related to shin splints. Otherwise known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), shin splints are caused when the connective tissue that attaches the muscle to bone (tibia) is overused or used incorrectly. The area becomes inflamed which contributes to pain, tenderness and in some cases swelling that is located on the inner part of the front of your leg (shin). In some cases the symptoms are only present with exercise or activity; in others, pain is constant. Runners are especially prone to this condition. Exercising on hard surfaces, improper foot wear, uphill/downhill running, and over-training often contribute to the onset. In some cases the way you run may also increase your chances of getting shin splints.

How are shin splints diagnosed?

Shin splints are generally diagnosed by history and physical exam. Your chiropractor will ask you questions like what makes it worse, what makes it better, how/when it began, and what it feels like. An exam will be performed that will consist of orthopedic and in some cases neurologic tests to determine the cause of the pain. Your chiropractor may also provide a biomechanical assessment (watching you in action)  to establish if there are any abnormalities of gait and movement. In some cases, further testing such as an X-ray, bone scan or MRI will be ordered.

What Are the Options for Treating Shin Splints?

Shin splints are commonly evaluated and successfully treated at Lehigh Valley Chiropractic. Some cases will require only minimal intervention and may be treated at home with ice massage, changes in foot wear, arch support, rest, elevation, and over the counter pain relievers. Other cases require rehabilitative treatment. The chiropractors at Lehigh Valley Chiropractic are trained to provide high quality and individualized treatment that will get you out of pain and improve your performance. Many active patients have reaped the benefits of chiropractic care. Schedule your appointment with one of our chiropractors and ride, run, dance, skate or ski your way to the top.

• Tibial stress injuries: decisive diagnosis and treatment of 'shin splints'. Couture CJ, Karlson KA.Phys Sportsmed. 2002 Jun;30(6):29-36.
• Medial tibial stress syndrome: conservative treatment options. Galbraith RM, Lavallee ME. Curr Rev Musculoskelet Med. 2009 Oct 7. The effects of active release technique on hamstring flexibility: a pilot study. George JW, Tunstall AC, Tepe RE, Skaggs CD. J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 2006 Mar-Apr;29(3):224-7.

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