Shin splints essentially is a term that is used to describe pain along the front (“anterior aspect”) of the shin bone. Unfortunately, it could refer to numerous conditions of varying severity like anterior tibialis syndrome, posterior tibialis syndrome, compartment syndrome or even stress fractures.
Anterior tibialis syndrome is an irritation of the muscle that helps to bring your “toes to your nose” or flex your foot up (dorsiflexion). This is very common in runners and walkers. Posterior tibialis syndrome is an irritation of the muscle that lies just behind the tibia (big shin bone), and brings your foot inward in a movement known as inversion. This is very commonly irritated in runners, especially those with improper footwear or those with flat feet (over pronation). For both of these conditions, the pain is caused by small tears in the muscles that attach to the shin bone (tibia). Sometimes this condition may progress to a tibial stress fracture. Stress fractures require rest and a visit to the orthopaedic surgeon for proper treatment.
The team at Waverley Central Chiropractic Clinic are specially trained to evaluate shin splints and determine not only the cause of the pain, but the proper treatment needed to treat the condition. Normally, fixing the biomechanics of the foot (if it is too flat for example), as well as addressing the mechanics of the patient’s walking and/or running technique is also done. Finally, we focus on strengthening of the gluteal muscles (in the buttocks) and improve balance.
The team at Waverley Central Chiropractic Clinic will be able to properly diagnose your condition by doing a thorough exam. We will then provide treatment to help you get back to living your life the way you want!
