What are Shin Splints?

7 July 2015 | John

Shin splints is a catch-all term to describe pain along your shin bone that worsens with exercise. Most shin splints are caused by Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), which is thought to be caused by the layer of tissue over the shin bone becoming inflamed when there is too much pressure on your shins. This can be very uncomfortable and it can take days or weeks for the pain to be relieved.

As it is a catch-all term, there are several other conditions which are frequently included under the umbrella of shin splints. These include Compartment Syndrome and a stress fracture, both of which are much more serious and must be treated by medical professionals.

What are the Symptoms of Shin Splints?

The main symptom of shin splints is pain along the surface or inside the shin — this can start as a dull pain but if stressed further it can become much more painful. The area can also be tender to the touch and in some cases will swell.

The frequency of the pain can vary from person to person; some feel the pain only while exercising, others feel it after exercising, and some feel it constantly. Pain from shin splints tends to be more generalised than other conditions that affect the shin.

What Can Cause Shin Splints?

Shin splints are mostly caused by over-exertion while exercising, especially excessive or badly controlled foot flattening while running. However, shin splints can also be caused by a sudden increase in intensity of exercise. Running on hard slopes or surfaces is also a cause of shin splints, as is wearing ill-fitting trainers or trainers with less arch support.

Shin splints are not only caused by exercise — being overweight can also cause shin problems, as it puts more weight and pressure on your legs. In addition, weak ankles, a tight Achilles tendon, flat feet and high arches can all also lead to shin splints developing.

How can Shoe Insoles help with Shin Splints?

The right shoe insole can help greatly with dealing with shin splints, preventing collapsing or flattening arches. In addition, the right shoe insole can help compensate for flat feet, which is a frequent cause of shin splints. By managing pronation (the rolling of your foot) insoles can reduce the chance of shin splints developing and stop them from returning. Shock absorbing insoles can also help with shin splints, absorbing pressure from high impact activities, such as running, so the leg muscles are subjected to less strain.

Please visit the Shoe Insoles website for a full range of Insoles for Shin Splints.