Shin Splints are things that many people will have to deal with at some point in their life. If you have pain in your shins when you run, then then this might be what you are facing. Whether you often run or just occasionally jog to get to the door more quickly that someone is holding open for you, if you have a throbbing pain in your shins when you go faster than walking pace, then it might be time to get it checked out.
What are shin splints?
Shin splints or medial tibial stress syndrome is when the connective tissue on your shins have too much stress on them and they become inflamed. This inflammation can cause a lot of pain. The more you run, the more stress is on them and thus the pain continues or worsens.
How do you get shin splints?
You do not have to be an athlete to get shin splints. They often arise from poorly supported shoes or flat feet. Some people simply have weak ankles, muscles or hips, and that can cause shin splints as well.
Then, of course there are also those people who have overworked their legs or who did not allow enough time for a proper warm-up or cool-down for their workout.
If you have shin splints, then you might be wondering when that pain will go away. Many times, the pain can subside on its own. However, it is still good to see a doctor if you suspect you might have this condition.
How can an orthopedist help?
Doctors can do a physical examination and take x-rays to look for possible fractures that might have occurred, which could be leading to your pain. Doctors can also provide some advice on ways to help your pain if you do have this condition.
Orthopedic surgeons who are specialty trained in orthopedic sports medicine would be recommended to check out your condition if you think you have shin splints. Our orthopedic surgeons are specifically trained to treat this kind of injury.
How do you relieve the pain from shin splints?
Some ways to help relieve some of the pain is to relieve some of the stress being put on your muscles. Working out on hard surfaces (concrete, gyms, etc.) all can lead to shin splints, so working out on softer surfaces whilst recovering can help relieve some of that stress and pain. This is if you do not choose the more effective treatment of rest.
Resting is one of the best ways to help relieve shin splint pain. Ice can also help ease the pain and swelling, but it is recommended to do this for multiple days to have the best result. If your condition was caused by flat feet or poorly supported shoes, then insoles or orthotics can be highly beneficial. This can help prevent your shin splints from returning as well. Finally, anti-inflammatory medicine can be good to help with pain and swelling as well.
“Will I ever be pain free again?”
Once you have taken proper care of your shin splints and seen a doctor to make sure there is not any underlying condition, then you should start to see positive results. You will be back to jogging, running and jumping in no time. Everyone heals at different speeds though, so it is important to continue to take care of your condition to help promote your healing.
How Miller Orthopedic Sports Medicine Specialists Can Help
Miller Orthopedic Specialists offers a *FREE sports injury clinic at both locations. Council Bluffs has a walk-in clinic from 10-11am every weekday, and the Omaha office has a free sports injury clinic by appointment weekdays. We offer same and next day appointments for sports injuries. Call 402-991-9958 for an appointment. Closed on holidays.
Initial consultation is free, but charges may occur for x-rays, supplies or follow-up visits. Come into our Council Bluffs office for the walk-in clinic and ask our front desk about your free T-shirt!
We have 2 fellowship-trained, Board Certified, Sports Medicine Physicians, Dr. Larose and Dr. Atteberry. They can treat patients of all ages, from children to the weekend warrior. Miller Orthopedic Specialists are proud to be the team physicians for the Iowa Western Reivers, UNO Mavericks, and College of Saint Mary Flames.
