Shin splints is the name given to the pain felt along the shin bone (tibia), and are usually caused by repetitive stress to the musculature and soft tissue that connects to that area.  The tibialis anterior, and more commonly the posterior tibialis muscle that connects to the tibia play an important role in supporting the arch of our foot.  If we induce repetitive stress to the arch, and in turn the muscles it can cause swelling, pressure and pain along the tibia.  Often symptoms are worse when one first starts walking, running or playing a sport, then reduces for a period, and the pain returns if the activity is continued for a prolonged period of time. 

There are often biomechanical issues that contribute to shin splints, including excessive pronation (collapse of the arch), poor footwear, and weak hip musculature to name a few. Our therapist are trained to evaluate the biomechanical movements patterns, as well as the other contributing factors that need to be addressed to reduce symptoms.  We will treat the acute symptoms in the early phase to reduce pain, then target the areas needed to prevent return of symptoms when our patients return to their respective activities.

 Associate Symptoms:

• Shin pain
• Pain with walking/running
• Lower leg swelling
• Calf pain
• Difficulty walking/running