SHIN SPLINTS

The term "shin splints" is used to describe pain in the front of the lower leg that occurs during exercise. Shin splints are a painful injury that is the result of strenuous exercise, poor training, or overuse. The pain of shin splints may come from an inflammation or irritation of the bone, inflammation of the muscle, or from pressure that builds up in the muscle. Sometimes the pain from shin splints is confused with stress fractures. The pain from stress fractures usually starts immediately.

The pain of shin splints may be just mild tenderness that is felt while exercising. Or the pain may be severe and continue after the exercise is over. Sometimes there may be some slight swelling.

Shin splints can usually be cared for at home. Rest the legs. Do not do sports that involve running or jumping. Cloth-covered ice packs can be put on the shins for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like aspirin or ibuprofen may be used for the pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

Usually the pain will go away after a week of treatment. Running and weight bearing exercise should not be restarted for at least 2 to 4 weeks. Exercise like swimming or bicycling can be done until running is tolerated. When running is started again, exercises to strengthen the legs should be done. A healthcare provider may need to be seen if the pain continues even with homecare.

Preventing shin splints includes warming-up followed by stretching exercises before starting to run. After running, stretching and cooling down exercises should be done. Running shoes that provide good support for the arch and good cushioning, especially in the heel area help to prevent shin splints. The provider may suggest orthotics to give extra support to the foot and keep the ankle from rolling in.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File SPOR5123.rf2 VRS# 7558 Data Version 7.0