Leg injuries are common among athletes or exercise enthusiasts that perform high impact type of exercises or activities. Many times, the level of stress put on the legs, feet and other joints during these activities can cause medical issues termed "Overuse injuries".
Shin Splints fit within this category and are identified as a dull pain in the lower front part of the leg between the knee and top of the foot. It may begin as a dull throbbing annoying pain that can become progressively worse if not attended to. In some cases, the pain can become so uncomfortable, that it may keep the athlete from working out totally.
This condition usually occurs in marathon or long distance runners or walkers that have dramatically increased their distances and stress levels on the lower extremities in a short period of time. The muscle in the front part of the leg becomes inflamed and aggravated during workouts.
If you believe you have this condition, seeking proper diagnosis and from a physician is recommended.
Treatment may come in the form of:
- Pursuing low impact type of activities such as cycling, or swimming
- Icing of the inflamed area
- Medication to help reduce inflammation
- Stretching and rehab exercises to loosen the areas that are causing the muscle to become aggravated
- Re-evaluation of the footwear being worn during the activity
- Selection of a more level surface for a period of time to help reduce stress and promote healing without reducing activity.
- Temporarily limiting the distance and/or pace of your daily routine.
In summary, shin splints can be very aggravating to the sports enthusiast who takes their running seriously. If this condition persists, you may want to look at other low impact, high cardio based activities to continue your training program.
