VSMC News

Shin Pain

There are certain signs of Spring: longer days, birds singing and people out walking and running. As we switch from inside training to outdoor activities a potential problem is Shin Pain.

Shin pain is located on the front of the lower leg. It can hurt over the bone or the muscles. This is often called Shin Splints and is a common condition in athletes who don’t properly prepare for their sport.

Shin pain occurs from overuse. The mild form is irritation of the muscles in the lower leg, but stress fractures of the bone can occur. Pain can occur in athletes who increase their activity too quickly. Athletes who train on hard surfaces (roads, tennis courts, etc) are more susceptible. Overly flat feet can contribute to shin pain.

The symptoms are pain over the front part of the lower leg and may occur at rest or during activity. To diagnose this problem see your physician. He or she will look for tenderness in the tissues in the front of your shin and may order x-rays to look for stress fractures.

The treatment for shin splints may include rest from running activities until the symptoms are gone; ice to your shin for 20 minutes every few hours; anti-inflammatory medication prescribed by your doctor or wearing prescribed custom arch supports to improve foot mechanics. Maintain conditioning through activities such as swimming or biking.
It is careful not to return to your sport too early and make your condition worse. You may safely return to your sport when you can run pain free.

To help prevent shin pain begin your activities gradually and progress the intensity slowly. Competitive athletes should participate in a pre-season conditioning program 6-8 weeks prior to the season. Wearing shoes appropriate to the activity and with good support and padding is another key to prevention.

For those looking for a fun way to run or walk the 15th Annual VT Sports Medicine Center Road Race is April 28th. This family event includes a Kid’s Run and is a fund raiser for children’s rehabilitation programs at Kids On The Move. Please call 802-775-1300 for information.

Christine Dana, PT
VT Sports Medicine Center

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