Shin Splints

Shin splints are from pain originating from the muscles on the shins. The cause is prolonged stress on the part of the lower leg from the ankle to a few inches below the knee cap. This is most likely from running or brisk walking. It can also be caused by anything that is done continuously that puts pressure on the lower leg, such as driving constantly with your foot on the gas or brake pedal. Two groups of muscles can be affected. The shin splint can affect the muscles on the front of the shin and muscles on the sides of the leg. This is caused by an imbalance in the size of the muscles because the shin muscles lift the leg and the stronger calf muscles pull down each time the heel hits the ground while running. The other muscles that can be affected are those on the calf and back of the leg.

The treatment is simply to quit running or other activities that are causing the shin splints until the symptoms disappear. There are many exercises that are extremely beneficial. One exercise that has been successful in relief from muscles on the front part of the shin is a stretching exercise to do while standing. Place the right leg behind and to the left of the left leg and stretch the upper body far to the left. Hold the position for ten seconds then reverse the process on the other leg. There are other exercises that a physical therapist can offer. If exercise and rest do not help, certain drugs may be helpful under a doctor's care.

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