Are you an athlete who is suffering from shin splints? Well, our team at Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York may be able to help. Our doctors offer years of expertise in podiatry so that we can help you get back to running shape as soon as possible. Shin Splints are a complicated injury and can be very painful, but fortunately, there are plenty of ways for you to alleviate your discomfort.
What are Shin Splints?
Shin Splints are also known as Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (MTSS), is used to describe pain and discomfort coming from the front of the lower leg between the ankle and knee. This is an injury commonly seen among those who participate in stop and go sports like tennis, basketball, or soccer. They are caused by constant pressure and impact on the shins and sometimes can result from minute bone fractures causing swelling and pain.
High-Risk Individuals for Shin Splints
You are at a higher risk of getting shin splints if:
- You have an anatomical abnormality like flat foot
- Severe weakness of the muscles in your legs
- Major lack of flexibility
- Using old or poor fitting running sneakers or cleats
- Running on hard surfaces like asphalt and concrete
Symptoms of Shin Splints include:
- Pain in the front part of your lower leg
- Swelling of the lower leg
- Numbness is toes and feet
- Muscle pains in the lower leg
How can you treat your shin splints?
If you are looking to treat your shin splints yourself, you could try the following suggestions:
- Use over the counter anti-inflammatory medications
- Use foam rollers to aid with blood circulation to shins
- Wear compression sleeves on legs
- Some cases require a surgical procedure
- Using the RICE Method of therapy
- Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate
How can you avoid shin splints?
Below are some helpful tips for shin splint prevention:
- Wear shoes that fit well and offer good support to your feet
- Purchasing insoles for sneakers that reduce the impact on legs
- Avoid running on uneven terrain
- Proper warm-up before exercise
- Proper stretching
- Engaging in exercises that strengthen muscles around this area
- Don’t play through pain or discomfort
While shin splints can be a recurring issue, it is important to be proactive regarding treatment. If you would like to consult with a medical professional about your shin splints, look no further than Foot and Ankle Surgeons of New York. We offer a variety of podiatric services, such as:
- Foot and Ankle Trauma
- Surgery
- Stem Cell and PRP Therapy
- Sports Medicine
- Medical Evaluations
- Pediatric Care
- Radiological Services
- In-Office Dispensing
For further information regarding our services, visit our website so you can get in touch with one of our three office locations today!