Q: I have recently increased my mileage and have noticed that the front of my shins have become extremely sore even to the mildest touch. I have done some reading on shin splints but am not sure what I should do now?
A: The most common area involved with the generalized term of "shin splints" is the medial or inner side of the lower leg. Discomfort associated with this problem is most often located on the inner aspect of the tibia (shin bone). This area will be tender to the touch as structures involved become irritated and inflamed. Onset of discomfort is often gradual. Pain in the involved area can range from sharp stabbing to a dull ache.
Stress fractures are also common to this area and presenting complaints are often similar. Shin splints often present a broader area of discomfort vertically along the inside of the shin while a stress fracture may present a focal or pinpoint area of pain.
Contributing factors:
Several factors often associated with shin splints are: increases in running mileage, training on hard surfaces (pavement) or overly soft surfaces, excessive pronation (inner roll of the foot), running on slanted surfaces, lack of footwear support or motion control.
Home care:
Stretching the front and back of the lower legs will help to decrease muscular tension in this area. Stretching should be performed during warm up and cool down routines. Apply ice to the affected area after running (1-3 12 min. intervals) to decrease inflammation and discomfort.
Chiropractic care will ensure associated physical components are functioning properly. Massage to the area may also help decrease tension in the lower legs. Anti-inflammatory drugs may be helpful in relieving symptoms but may also allow you to over abuse the injured area.
Chiropractic Care:
Pronation is the primary mechanical factor leading to shin splints. Pelvic alignment and leg length discrepancies are key factors affecting foot pronation. Abnormal mechanics of the pelvis and lower back can significantly affect ones gait- affecting leg length, foot flare, foot strike, your ability to adapt to stresses and recover, along with numerous other factors. The ramifications of such changes are increased dramatically when running.
Misaligned spinal and pelvic segments known as subluxations can be detrimental to your health. Removal of subluxations through specific Chiropractic care is essential for all individuals, but especially those undertaking such physical stress as running.
Dr. Jeffrey P. Metcalf
Helping fellow runners stay healthy allows Dr. Metcalf to combine two of his passions in life, running and Chiropractic health care.
