Shin splints

The good old shin splints hold a soft spot in my heart, they are what got me to the Physio when I was 14 and since that first visit, I knew I wanted to be a Physio! Shin splints is the term we use for pain in the shin area (usually lower 1/3) during or after heavy weight bearing activity such as running. It’s usually a combination of ‘off biomechanics’ as well as an overload in activity like suddenly jumping into running training. It’s essentially tiny parts of the of the broad attachments of the muscles that attach to the shin tearing - I know that sounds terrible, but it can be treated like all other injuries. The pain is often dull and aching, felt only during your running activity, but if left untreated, it could progress to walking as well.

Treatment by the physiotherapist will be helping to correct your biomechanics, potentially adding in some orthotics, stretching the hamstrings, calf and plantar fascia as well as working on stabilizing through the foot, ankle and hip to improve control. Advice on training management is essential to get your back to activity in a gradual way, allowing your tissues rest and heal. See your physio now for help to prevent shin splints - and perhaps you'll leave your appointment wanting to be a physio too!