SYMPTOMS
The term shin splints refers to a painful condition that develops where the muscles located on the shin and in the calf muscles attach to the shin bone (tibia). They actively control 1 to 5 times your body weight, an average of 10,000 times per day.
The most common symptoms associated with shin splints include:
- Burning and aching along the shin bone.
- Pain is sharp and constant when muscles are used.
Most symptoms increase with accumulating activity.
CAUSES
The most common causes of shin splints include:
- Hyperpronation – flat feet, fallen arches and weak ankles strain these muscle.
- Unsupportive footwear – common with gel pads or air bag soles.
- Participation in high impact sports and “too much, too soon” training.
TREATMENT
Orthotics (Orthoses) – Must be prescribed by a physician
Custom made orthoses support the skeleton, muscles and fascia in the correct position. Orthoses are a long term solution to prevent reoccurrence by controlling and/or correcting the mechanics that cause the problem.
Orthoses for shin splints should include:
- Medial longitudinal arch support to stabilize muscles and control hyperpronation.
- A cupped heel to control hindfoot motion.
- Forefoot and hindfoot postings as necessary to control excessive motion (hyperpronation).
Footwear
Stability footwear including therapeutic and orthopaedic shoes, are integral to the treatment process. Certified Pedorthists are trained to fit patients with appropriate footwear. BioPed offers many types of footwear into which an orthotic device may be placed or worn alone.
- Footwear that provides medial stability.
- Footwear incorporating a heel rocker – assists with deceleration of the foot at heel strike.
Modifications to footwear are also available at the discretion of the Pedorthist.
