What causes shin splints?
Shin splints are most commonly tied to physical activity and exercise, especially running. This painful condition occurs when the muscles and bones in your lower leg are overworked, possibly due to repetitive motions or a change in your activity level.
Your risk of suffering from shin splints increases due to:
- Working out more frequently
- Running or walking on hills
- Having flat feet or high arches
- Increasing your workout intensity suddenly, as is common with weekend warriors
Sometimes, you’re doing everything right, but you still develop shin splints. This could be linked to your footwear. If your shoes are worn out or aren’t supporting you properly, you may wind up with excessive strain on your lower extremities.
When should I see a doctor for shin splints?
It’s important to schedule an exam for shin splints as soon as you start experiencing lower leg pain, just so you can begin taking measures to prevent the progression of shin splints.
The team at Cardio Metabolic Institute recommends coming in as soon as possible if you’re experiencing any of the following symptoms in your lower legs:
- Sharp or throbbing pains
- Tenderness or soreness to the touch
- Discomfort that occurs both during and after physical activity
These could be signs of not only shin splints, but also related conditions, such as stress fractures. Your podiatrist at Cardio Metabolic Institute examines you and takes any essential X-ray or ultrasound imaging, so they can diagnose you and get you started on treatment right away.
Which shin splints treatment is most effective?
Cardio Metabolic Institute tailors your shin splints treatment plan entirely tailored to you and the severity of your symptoms. For maximum effectiveness, your doctor is likely going to combine any of the following shin-splint treatments:
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Rest, ice, compression, and elevation (RICE)
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP)
- Activity modifications
- Custom orthotics
- Physical therapy
- Shoe changes
Your dedicated sports medicine specialist at Cardio Metabolic Institute even spends time counseling you on how to slowly build up your workout intensity and duration, as well as how to cross train, so you can prevent shin splints in the future.
Book your shin-splints evaluation at Cardio Metabolic Institute today. You can schedule an appointment either online or over the phone with your closest clinic.
