Shin splints/tibial stress syndrome

Shin splints are also known as tibial stress syndrome and is a common injury usually affecting sports people who engage in running or various other physical activities. It is characterised by pain felt in the lower leg, usually on the inside.

What causes Shin splints/tibial stress syndrome?

Shin splints are the result of repeated trauma to the connective muscle tissue surrounding the tibia bone. The sport in which this injury is most prevalent is running although any activity involving repetitive motion and loading and/or stopping and starting may contribute to shin splints. Due to the sheer forces exerted during this condition, ignoring the pain and working through it may actually cause more serious injury such as stress fractures or in even more severe cases, broken bones.

It is also thought that bio-mechanically compromised foot position (such as flat arches for example) may contribute to or cause shin splints.

What are the symptoms of Shin splints/tibial stress syndrome?

Symptoms may include one or more of the following:

Pain down the inside of the shin
Significant tenderness to touch along the shin bone
Pain during and after activity
Swelling & redness in the lower leg
Lumps along the shin bone (rare)

Physiotherapy treatment for Shin splints/tibial stress syndrome

Early physiotherapy intervention at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic is essential to enhance your recovery time and decrease the likelihood of future recurrence.

Our specialist physiotherapists will undertake an initial assessment to determine which factors have contributed to the development of the condition and will then design an individualised rehabilitation program specific to your needs and goals.

We will discuss each stage with you thoroughly to ensure you feel happy and at ease with your treatment.

Physiotherapy treatment at Cleethorpes Physio Clinic may include: