Shin splints

Shin splints

Shin splints are a painful inflammation of the periosteum, the dense layer of connective tissue that covers the bones. It may also be called periostitis. The pain occurs along the inside or outside of the shin bone or tibia.

Causes

There are basically two factors causing shin splints. One is over-use of the muscles, especially in people who have been sedentary and suddenly take up vigorous exercise. The other cause is pronation or inward rolling motion of the foot. Both of these causes result in the muscles along the shin bone to be tightened with a resulting irritation and swelling of the periosteum.

Treament

After an assessment by your Chiropodist treatment may include a home stretching and strengthening program and footwear advice along with custom foot orthotics to optimize or control biomechanical function.