Shin splints

Shin splints are defined as pain along the inside edge of the shinbone (tibia). Generally this is between the middle of the lower leg to the ankle. The pain may be dull or sharp and is generally brought on by exercise. It generally resolves during periods of rest. Complications may include stress fractures. Shin splints are defined as pain along the inside edge of the shinbone (tibia). Generally this is between the middle of the lower leg to the ankle. The pain may be dull or sharp and is generally brought on by exercise. It generally resolves during periods of rest. Complications may include stress fractures. Shin splints typically occur due to excessive physical activity. Groups that are commonly affected include runners, dancers, and military personal. The underlying mechanism is not entirely clear. Diagnosis is generally based on the symptoms, with medical imaging done to rule out other possible causes. Treatment is generally by rest with gradual return to exercise. Other measures such as NSAIDs, cold packs, physical therapy, and compression may be used. Shoe insoles may help some people. Surgery is rarely required, but may be done if other measures are not effective. Rates of shin splints in at risk groups are 4 to 35%. It occurs more often in women. It was first described in 1958. Shin splint pain is described as a recurring dull ache along the inner part of the lower two-thirds of the tibia. In contrast, stress fracture pain is localized to the fracture site. The pain has been described as a dull ache to an intense pain that increases during exercise, and some individuals experience swelling in the pain area. Females are 1.5 to 3.5 times more likely to progress to stress fractures from shin splints. This is due in part to females having a higher incidence of diminished bone density and osteoporosis. Shin splints typically occur due to excessive physical activity. Groups that are commonly affected include runners, dancers, and military personal.