INTRODUCTION​

• Shin splints account for about 13% of injuries in runners

• Shin splints can occur as a result of muscle weakness or imbalance

• If you think you have shin splints, see a medical professional to properly diagnose the condition and rule out more dangerous pathologies such as stress fractures 

• Shin splints usually occur after repetitive running. It is characterized by inflammation of the periosteum around the shin bone called traction induced periostitis 

• Often associated with sudden increase in training intensity, especially running

• Running in hard soled/poorly cushioned shoes/hard surfaces 

CAUSES​

• Shin splints usually occur after repetitive running. It is characterized by inflammation of the periosteum around the shin bone called traction induced periostitis 

• Often associated with sudden increase in training intensity, especially running

• Running in hard soled/poorly cushioned shoes/hard surfaces 

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Associated with an insidious onset of shin pain

• Achy, sharp, severe, shin pain

• Usually worse with activity and better with rest

TREATMENT​​

• Relative rest and taking a break from running or training

• Non-impact cross-training

• Anti-inflammatories

• Stretching program

• No Immobilization, due to weakness

• Shoe replacement every 250 miles. One study reported more than 60% loss of shock absorption after 250 miles

• Re-establish distance before speed, gradual return to sport over 6wks otherwise recurrence is predictable

• No treatment combination above works better than rest alone

PREVENTION  ​​

• One way you can avoid shin splints is to run in soft-soled and well-cushioned shoes. Go to a local running store and get a properly-fitted, well-cushioned pair of shoes

• In addition, running on a soft surface such as a padded track is better than running on harder surfaces like concrete or asphalt

• Finally, avoiding sudden increases in training intensity and duration will decrease the chance of developing shin splints