When Should You See a Physio about Shin Splints?

There is a myth that only runners struggle with shin splints. Many people struggle with shin splints, irrespective of their age. In this blog post, we’ll discuss what shin splints are, what causes them, and when you should seek medical attention. 

Table of content

• What are shin splints?
• What are the types of shin splints?
• What do shin splints feel like?
• Shin splints recovery time
• How to stretch shin splints?
• When should you see a physio about shin splints?
• Do shin splints go away?
• Conclusion

What are shin splints?

Shin splints are a condition that leads to inflammation and pain in the lower legs, especially along the shinbone. They usually occur due to overuse or repetitive stress on the lower leg bones and muscles. This can be the result of activities like jumping, running, or dancing. If you are struggling with shin splints, you may feel pain along the outside or inside of your shinbone. The pain may be sharp or dull, and with activity, it may get worse. 

What are the types of shin splints?

Basically, there are two types of shin splints. It’s important to know which one you have:

• Anterior shin splints

This type of shin splint can be the result of irritation to the tibialis anterior, a muscle that helps in lifting the foot. You may experience pain along the front of the shin, right next to the bone. 

• Posterior shin splints

Posterior shin splint occurs due to the irritation of the tibialis posterior, a muscle that helps in lowering the foot and pointing the toes. This type of shin splint causes pain along the back of the tibia. 

What do shin splints feel like?

Whether you struggle with anterior or posterior shin splints, both of them start as a dull ache that athletes usually feel in the bone. Commonly, a dull ache turns into full-blown pain. Here are the following symptoms of shin splints:

• Slight swelling
• Pain when you start exercising, especially during a warm-up
• Pain that gets worse during exercise. 
• Certain motions, such as pointing the toes, can also cause the pain. 

Shin splints recovery time

The time it takes to recover from shin splints completely depends on how severe the condition is. For most people, home treatments and rest can be enough to relieve pain within a few weeks. Some people may need medical attention. 

How to stretch shin splints?

Achilles tendon seated stretch

• Bend one knee while sitting on the floor, and put the other leg out in front of you, and your heel should be on the floor. 
• Loop a towel or an exercise band around the ball of your foot. 
• Now, pull your foot toward you and hold this position for 15 to 30 seconds. 

Tibialis anterior muscle stretch

• Sit on your feet, your toes should be pointed slightly in, and keep your hands in front of you. 
• To increase the stretch, lean forward to raise yourself up, while resting on your toes. 

When should you see a physio about shin splints?

You need to pay close attention to the following signs of shin splints to know when you should see a physio Glenory at Magnus Medical:

• The dull ache of shin splint can turn into persistent, sharp pain over time, especially during activities like walking or running. The discomfort may reduce with rest, but if the pain continues after a break, it’s a sign that more attention is required. 
• Tenderness when pressing along the shinbone is another sign of shin splints. This sensitivity worsens over time, even during light pressure. If you notice ongoing swelling, it’s the right time to seek medical care. 
• If pain continues even after trying home remedies, you may need more attention. If you continue to rely on home remedies without getting pain relief, it can delay recovery. 
• Persistent pain despite changing your footwear could be a sign that the condition is more severe. 
• If shin splints prevent you from doing daily activities like walking or standing, it’s a sign that the condition is getting worse. A physio can help identify the cause and suggest treatment to ease your symptoms. 

Do shin splints go away?

Shin splints often go away with proper rest and home care, and they usually resolve in 3 to 4 weeks. Full recovery can take a few months. 

Conclusion

If you are struggling with shin splints, try home remedies, but if these remedies don’t work, then consult with a physiotherapist at Magnus Medical, which is a bulk billing medical centre Glenroy.

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