Shin Splints are an inflammation of the muscles and other tissues that attach to the shin bone (tibia) in the lower leg. They are commonly seen in athletes who have been doing a lot of running and generally occur at the beginning of a sport season. Some causes include: increasing mileage/intensity too quickly, improper warm-up/stretching, improper/worn out shoes, and flat feet/fallen arches. This is a treatable and preventable injury, but could turn into a stress fracture if ignored.

Prevention:

· Gradually increase your activity. Begin running before your season starts.

· Make sure you are running in shoes with adequate support.

· Always warm-up and stretch before running and cool-down and stretch after running

· If you have flat feet/arches, you should get an arch support to wear in your shoes. An over the counter arch support may help, but sometimes it is necessary to get a custom made foot orthotic

· Proper strengthening/stretching of the muscles in the ankle and low leg

Treatment

· Rest from running or decrease activity

· Run on a softer surface. (avoid pavement, concrete, etc)

· Ice the area for 20 minutes 2-3 times a day

· Arch Supports for flat feet/arches

· Appropriate rehabilitation exercises/stretches

See your athletic trainer or physician for appropriate evaluation and treatment if you suspect you have shin splints.