Posture Podiatry Shin Splints

What Are Shin Splints and How Can You Treat Them?

Our Adelaide Podiatrists answer common shin splints questions and explain the difference between shin pain and shin splints.

Simple Shin Splints Fact…

Did you know NOT all shin pain is actually “Shin Splints”?

What Are Shin Splints?

The real shin splints cause arises from tiny stress fractures along the shin bone often at the lower inside portion of the shin bone where the stress on the shin bone is at its greatest.

There are, however, other forms of shin pain, each with different causes, and each responding to different shin splints treatments.

A Shin Pain Diagnosis is Important

To address shin pain appropriately, the first thing to do is physically examine and accurately diagnose the shin soreness, and identify the true cause of the shin pain. In diagnosing the condition there could be any of the following to consider:

• A muscle imbalance leading to overuse of the muscle along the shin bone
• Joint instability in the joints above or below the shin bone
• Abnormal pressure in the lower leg (Compartment Syndrome)
• Micro-tears of the muscles in the shin against the shin bone

Common muscular causes of shin pain include posterior tibial tendinopathy, tibialis anterior tendinopathy, anterior compartment syndrome, and overuse injuries. There could be many other reasons why your shins are painful including training errors and footwear features.

The complex nature of shin pain reminds us of the importance of an accurate diagnosis.

The experienced shin splints podiatrists at Posture Podiatry are trained to provide that personalised evaluation and service so specific shin pain treatment can be applied accordingly.

Learn more about Posture Podiatry’s Initial Low Gap or GAP FREE* Assessment. 

What is the Best Treatment for Shin Splints?

Once the cause of the shin pain has been determined, appropriate treatment can be recommended. Shin pain treatment often involves a combination of treatment modalities applied at just the right time. This may include:

• Specific stretching and strengthening exercises. Many studies have shown calf strength is very important.
• Advice on training errors such as over-striding
• Consideration of training terrain
• Footwear review and shoe recommendations are very important
• Orthotics if foot and leg alignment is contributing to overuse or overload
• Mobilisation and specialist massage techniques if muscles are tight or when motion is restricted.
• Dry needling may be appropriate if muscular trigger points are evident and contributing factors.
• Rest may be indicated if stress fractures are present. During this time swimming, cycling and water running may be suggested to maintain fitness levels.

Call us on 8362 5900 if you would like to speak with one of our experienced Adelaide Podiatrists about your shin pain or you can BOOK ONLINE any time to schedule a time that suits you.

Where Can I Get Help for Shin Splints or Shin Pain?

Sometimes people just aren’t sure how we can help. This is why we offer a special low gap initial examination. Further details can be found here: Initial Low Gap or GAP FREE* Assessment. 

Our Initial Low Gap or GAP FREE* Assessment involves a comprehensive client history, foot assessment, leg assessment, gait analysis, likely diagnosis and advice on potential pain solutions and a personalised treatment plan. Further explanation of any treatment or management can be discussed with our experienced Adelaide Podiatrists.

Need an Adelaide Podiatrist for Shin Splints or Shin Pain?

BOOK ONLINE or simply Call 8362 5900 and ask for our special Low or No Gap* Assessment.